When caring for a client diagnosed with thrombocytopenia, the nurse should plan to:
encourage vigorous tooth brushing with a soft bristle toothbrush.
avoid needle sticks or other invasive procedures as much as possible.
hold all stool softeners and laxatives until otherwise ordered.
obtain a low temperature every 8 hours.`
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: The nurse should not encourage vigorous tooth brushing with a soft bristle toothbrush. Thrombocytopenia is a condition where the blood has a low number of platelets, which are cells that help with clotting. ¹ Vigorous tooth brushing can cause bleeding of the gums, which can be hard to stop in a client with thrombocytopenia. The nurse should advise the client to use a soft sponge or swab to clean the teeth and mouth gently.
Choice B reason: The nurse should avoid needle sticks or other invasive procedures as much as possible. Needle sticks and other invasive procedures can cause bleeding, bruising, or infection in a client with thrombocytopenia. ¹ The nurse should use the smallest gauge needle possible, apply pressure for at least 10 minutes after the procedure, and monitor the site for any signs of bleeding or infection. The nurse should also avoid unnecessary blood draws or injections, and use non-invasive methods whenever possible.
Choice C reason: The nurse should not hold all stool softeners and laxatives until otherwise ordered. Stool softeners and laxatives can help prevent constipation and straining, which can cause hemorrhoids or anal fissures in a client with thrombocytopenia. ¹ The nurse should encourage the client to take stool softeners and laxatives as prescribed, drink plenty of fluids, and eat high-fiber foods to promote regular bowel movements.
Choice D reason: The nurse should not obtain a low temperature every 8 hours. A low temperature is not a relevant or accurate measurement for a client with thrombocytopenia. The nurse should obtain a normal temperature, which is around 98.6°F (37°C), using a non-invasive method, such as an oral or tympanic thermometer. ² The nurse should avoid using a rectal thermometer, as it can cause bleeding or infection in a client with thrombocytopenia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: The international normalized ratio (INR) is a measure of the blood's ability to clot. It is not affected by ferrous sulfate therapy, which is used to treat iron deficiency anemia. The normal range of INR is 0.8 to 1.2 seconds.
Choice B reason: Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. It is the main indicator of anemia and the response to iron therapy. The normal range of hemoglobin for adults is 12 to 18 g/dL. A hemoglobin level of 14 g/dL suggests that the patient's anemia has improved with ferrous sulfate therapy.
Choice C reason: Serum iron is the amount of iron in the blood. It is not a reliable indicator of anemia or iron therapy, as it can fluctuate with dietary intake, infection, inflammation, and other factors. The normal range of serum iron for adults is 50 to 170 mcg/dL.
Choice D reason: Platelet count is the number of platelets in the blood. Platelets are involved in blood clotting and wound healing. They are not affected by ferrous sulfate therapy, which is used to treat iron deficiency anemia. The normal range of platelet count for adults is 150,000 to 450,000/mm3.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Exertional dyspnea is a common symptom of unstable angina, which is caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. Carvedilol is a beta-blocker that reduces the workload of the heart and improves its oxygen supply. Therefore, resolving exertional dyspnea indicates that the medication has been effective.
Choice B reason: A heart rate of 50 beats/minute is not a desired outcome of carvedilol therapy. It may indicate that the dose is too high or that the client has a conduction problem. A normal resting heart rate for adults is between 60 and 100 beats/minute.
Choice C reason: A regular heart rhythm is not a specific indicator of carvedilol effectiveness. Carvedilol can prevent or treat some arrhythmias, but it is not the primary goal of therapy for unstable angina. A regular heart rhythm may also be influenced by other factors such as electrolytes, hydration, and stress.
Choice D reason: A blood pressure of 120/90 is not a sign of carvedilol effectiveness. Carvedilol can lower blood pressure, but it is not the main purpose of treatment for unstable angina. A blood pressure of 120/90 is considered prehypertension, which may increase the risk of cardiovascular complications.
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