Which strategy is most important for a nurse to include when planning care for a patient who has neutropenia?
Restricting all visitors.
Placing the patient in a private room.
Advising the patient to use only an electric shaver.
Wearing a gown and gloves when in direct contact with the patient.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Restricting all visitors might be beneficial in preventing infections, but it is not the most important strategy for a patient with neutropenia. The main concern is the risk of infections due to the compromised immune system.
Choice B rationale:
Placing the patient in a private room is crucial for a neutropenic patient. Neutropenia, characterized by a low absolute neutrophil count (ANC), significantly compromises the patient's immune system, making them highly susceptible to infections. Isolating the patient helps minimize the risk of exposure to pathogens, reducing the likelihood of infections.
Choice C rationale:
Using an electric shaver instead of a razor is advisable to prevent cuts and minimize the risk of skin infections. While this is a good practice, it is not the most important strategy compared to isolating the patient and using personal protective equipment (PPE) during direct patient care.
Choice D rationale:
Wearing a gown and gloves when in direct contact with the patient is essential to prevent the spread of infections. This is a necessary measure, but isolating the patient in a private room takes precedence as it minimizes the risk of exposure to pathogens, providing a safer environment for the neutropenic patient.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A low level of hepcidin would not cause a decrease in hemoglobin levels. Hepcidin regulates iron homeostasis by inhibiting the absorption of iron from the intestines and promoting its storage in cells.
Choice B rationale:
An increase in iron-binding capacity typically occurs in conditions like iron deficiency anemia, where the body tries to increase its capacity to transport iron. This would not cause a low hemoglobin level in an otherwise healthy individual.
Choice C rationale:
Aging often leads to a decrease in the efficiency of nutrient absorption, including iron. This decrease in intestinal absorption of iron can result in low hemoglobin levels in elderly individuals. It's a common cause of anemia in the elderly population.
Choice D rationale:
Erythropoietin is a hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells. A decrease in erythropoietin secretion from the kidneys would lead to anemia, but it is not a typical effect of aging and is usually associated with kidney disease.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Uses an alcohol-based mouthwash twice a day.
Choice A rationale:
Drinking 14 glasses of water daily is generally beneficial as it helps maintain hydration and supports overall health. However, it is important to balance fluid intake to avoid overhydration.
Choice B rationale:
Shaving with an electric razor is recommended for patients with thrombocytopenia because it reduces the risk of cuts and bleeding compared to using a traditional razor.
Choice C rationale:
Using an alcohol-based mouthwash can cause dryness and irritation of the oral mucosa, which can lead to bleeding, especially in patients with thrombocytopenia. It is better to use a non-alcoholic mouthwash.
Choice D rationale:
Brushing teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush is advised to minimize the risk of gum bleeding and maintain oral hygiene.
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