The nurse analyzes the laboratory values of a pediatric client with leukemia who is receiving chemotherapy. The nurse notes the following lab values: platelets 19,500/mcl (nl. 140,000-400,000/mcL), hemoglobin 11 g/dL (nl. 12-16 g/dL), white blood cell count 9,800/mcl (nl. 5,000-10,000/mcL). Based on these findings, which intervention should the nurse prioritize in the plan of care?
Monitoring closely for signs of infection.
Transfusing packed red blood cells.
Administering intravenous immunoglobulins.
Initiating bleeding precautions.
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Monitoring for infection is important, but the white blood cell count is within normal limits, so it is not the immediate priority.
B. Although the hemoglobin is slightly low, it is not critically low, so transfusion of packed red blood cells is not immediately necessary.
C. Intravenous immunoglobulins are not indicated based on the current lab values.
D. The platelet count is critically low, placing the client at high risk for bleeding. Initiating bleeding precautions is the priority to prevent hemorrhage.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. The child’s reluctance to change clothes in front of others might suggest body image issues, but it doesn’t directly indicate spinal curvature.
B. Difficulty finding pants that fit evenly over the hips could indicate a scoliosis-related curvature, where one hip may be higher than the other.
C. Back pain could be related to various conditions, including scoliosis, but by itself, it’s not definitive for spinal curvature.
D. Daily use of ibuprofen for hip pain may indicate musculoskeletal issues but doesn’t directly relate to spinal curvature or scoliosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Prone positioning is not recommended post-operatively for abdominal surgery and could exacerbate respiratory issues.
B. While monitoring white blood cell count is important, encouraging lung expansion and preventing complications such as atelectasis is a more immediate priority.
C. The client's pain rating is low and does not necessitate immediate administration of acetaminophen.
D. Encouraging the use of an incentive spirometer helps improve lung expansion, which is crucial to prevent atelectasis and promote proper oxygenation, particularly when breath sounds are diminished.