A nurse is collecting data from a client who has leukemia. Which of the following findings has the highest priority?
Hematocrit 35% (F 37% -47%; M 42%-52%)
Bone pain
Weight loss
Platelet count 125.000/mm3 (150,000-400,000)
The Correct Answer is D
A. Hematocrit 35% (F 37%–47%; M 42%–52%): Although the hematocrit is slightly low, it is not as concerning as a low platelet count, which poses an immediate risk for bleeding.
B. Bone pain: Bone pain is common in leukemia due to bone marrow expansion, but it does not take priority over the risk of bleeding from thrombocytopenia.
C. Weight loss: Weight loss may be a symptom of leukemia, but it is not immediately life-threatening and does not take priority over a low platelet count that increases bleeding risk.
D. Platelet count 125,000/mm³ (150,000–400,000): A low platelet count is concerning in leukemia patients because it increases the risk of bleeding. Monitoring for and preventing bleeding is a high priority due to thrombocytopenia associated with leukemia.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Folate: Folate is important for red blood cell production but does not address the Vitamin B12 deficiency seen in pernicious anemia.
B. Vitamin C: Vitamin C does not impact pernicious anemia as it is not involved in Vitamin B12 absorption.
C. Vitamin B12: Pernicious anemia occurs due to a lack of intrinsic factor, which is necessary for Vitamin B12 absorption. After a total gastrectomy, intrinsic factor is no longer produced, requiring Vitamin B12 supplementation.
D. Iron: Iron deficiency anemia is different from pernicious anemia, which specifically requires Vitamin B12 supplementation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Explain the procedure to the patient’s family: While helpful, this is not as crucial as ensuring patient comfort and pain management during the procedure itself.
B. Observe the patient for bleeding: Observing for bleeding is important post-procedure rather than beforehand.
C. Drape the biopsy site: Draping is part of the procedure setup, but pain management is more critical for patient preparation.
D. Administer an analgesic to the patient: Administering an analgesic is essential to manage pain and discomfort during a bone marrow biopsy. This ensures the patient is as comfortable as possible.