MEDizzy - The nurse analyzes the laboratory values of a child with

Feed Library Learning Discuss Leaderboard Journal

Pediatric Nursing

The nurse analyzes the laboratory values of a child with leukemia who is receiving chemotherapy. The nurse notes that the platelet count is 19,500 mm3 (19.5 × 109/L). On the basis of this laboratory result, which intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care?

ExplanationLeukemia is a malignant increase in the number of leukocytes, usually at an immature stage, in the bone marrow. It affects the bone marrow, causing anemia from decreased erythrocytes, infection from neutropenia, and bleeding from decreased platelet production (thrombocytopenia). If a child is has a low platelet count usually less than 50,000 mm3 (50.0 × 10 9 /L), bleeding precautions need to be initiated because of the increased risk of bleeding or hemorrhage. Precautions include limiting activity that could result in head injury, using soft toothbrushes, checking urine and stools for blood, and administering stool softeners to prevent straining with constipation. In addition, suppositories, enemas, and rectal temperatures are avoided. Options 2, 3, and 4 are related to the prevention of infection rather than bleeding.