A client with leukemia is receiving chemotherapy. The nurse observes the client is weak, pale, and febrile. After reviewing the client's most recent laboratory results which reveals a platelet count of 25,000/mm3 (25 x 10^9/L), which intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Monitor urine and stool for occult blood regularly.
Ensure a large gauge catheter is used to obtain blood samples.
Remove cold and frozen foods from dietary trays.
Wrap bruised areas with elastic bandage dressings.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Monitoring for occult blood in urine and stool is crucial in clients with low platelet counts to detect any potential bleeding early, as they are at increased risk of bleeding due to thrombocytopenia.
B. Using a large gauge catheter may be necessary for some procedures, but it is not the priority intervention regarding the client’s current state and platelet count.
C. Removing cold and frozen foods from dietary trays does not directly address the critical concern of bleeding associated with low platelet levels.
D. While protecting bruised areas is important, it is secondary to monitoring for active bleeding, which is more critical at this stage.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Wearing braces or splints on both wrists at night helps to keep the wrists in a neutral position, preventing flexion that can worsen symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, particularly during sleep when the hands are more likely to be positioned in ways that exacerbate compression of the median nerve.
B. While notifying the healthcare provider is important if symptoms are severe, it is not the immediate teaching intervention the nurse should provide for symptom management.
C. Elevating the hands may help with swelling but is not the primary intervention for managing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, especially pain and tingling.
D. Cold compresses may provide temporary relief but do not address the underlying issue of median nerve compression, which is better managed by using wrist braces.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The elevated heart rate and respirations suggest the client may be experiencing hypoxia, especially following a thoracotomy. Administering oxygen will help improve oxygen saturation levels and address potential respiratory distress.
B. While pain management is essential, the immediate concern is ensuring adequate oxygenation.
C. Administering IV fluids may be necessary but is secondary to ensuring the client's oxygenation.
D. Encouraging the client to splint and cough is important for preventing complications but does not address the immediate issue of vital signs indicating possible respiratory compromise.