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 D
Explanation
A. Two areas of lymph nodes above and below the diaphragm: This describes stage III Hodgkin disease, where lymph node involvement occurs both above and below the diaphragm, but not necessarily in multiple organs.
B. Two or more areas on the same side of the diaphragm: This corresponds to stage II Hodgkin disease, which is limited to two or more lymph node regions on the same side of the diaphragm.
C. Localized in the cervical neck area only: Stage I Hodgkin disease typically involves a single lymph node region, often the cervical nodes, without generalized or extensive spread.
D. Generalized throughout the body within multiple organs: In stage IV Hodgkin disease, the cancer has spread beyond the lymph nodes to other organs and tissues, leading to generalized lymphadenopathy and potential organ involvement.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Have the patient take a number and stay in the waiting area. Delaying care could lead to worsening of a potentially life-threatening bleeding episode. Hemophilia patients should be assessed promptly.
B. Place the patient in an examination room immediately and notify the physician of a potential bleeding crisis. Hemophilia patients are at risk of internal bleeding, which may not always be visible externally. Rapid assessment is essential to prevent complications from internal bleeding.
C. Send the patient for routine x-rays to locate the source of bleeding and place him in an examination room. X-rays may not immediately detect bleeding in soft tissues. The physician should evaluate the patient first.
D. Palpate the suspected area of bleeding for tenderness and edema. Palpating could worsen bleeding or cause pain, and the nurse should focus on ensuring the patient is seen promptly by the physician.