How are patients with pernicious anemia treated?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the treatment of pernicious anemia, the correct option is C) Parenteral vitamin B12. Pernicious anemia is caused by a lack of intrinsic factor, a protein necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12. Therefore, oral supplementation of vitamin B12 would be ineffective as the problem lies in absorption rather than intake. Option A) Oral iron is incorrect because pernicious anemia is not a condition related to iron deficiency. Option B) Oral folic acid is incorrect as folic acid supplementation may mask a vitamin B12 deficiency without treating the root cause. Option D) Oral prednisone is incorrect as it is a steroid medication and not a treatment for pernicious anemia. Educationally, understanding the specific treatment for pernicious anemia is crucial for nursing students and healthcare professionals. Knowing the rationale behind the correct treatment helps in providing effective care to patients with this condition. Administering parenteral vitamin B12 bypasses the absorption issues and ensures that patients receive the necessary nutrient directly.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this Hematology NCLEX question, the correct answer is C) Leukocytes. Leukocytes, also known as white blood cells, play a crucial role in the immune system. Specifically, they contain proteins that function as immunologic agents to prevent or modify infectious diseases. These proteins include antibodies, cytokines, and other molecules that help the body fight off pathogens. Option A) Plasma is the liquid component of blood that carries various substances like nutrients, hormones, and waste products. While plasma does contain some proteins involved in immunity, it is not the primary site for immunologic agents in blood. Option B) Erythrocytes are red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport in the body. They do not have a significant role in immune defense and lack the proteins necessary for immunologic functions. Option D) Platelets are cell fragments essential for blood clotting. They are not involved in immune responses and do not contain proteins that function primarily as immunologic agents. Understanding the role of different blood components is vital for healthcare professionals, especially in scenarios where assessing immune function is crucial. Recognizing the specific functions of leukocytes in immunity can guide clinical decision-making and patient care effectively.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In hematology, assessing the tonsil size is important as it can provide valuable information about a client's health. In this scenario, a tonsil size of 2+ indicates that the tonsils extend medially toward the uvula. This means that the tonsils are enlarged but do not touch each other or the uvula. Option A is incorrect because when the tonsils touch the uvula, it would be classified as 3+. Option C is incorrect as it describes tonsils that are almost touching each other, which would also be classified as 3+. Option D is incorrect as visible tonsils are typically classified as 1+. Educationally, understanding the grading system for tonsil size is crucial for assessing the severity of tonsillar enlargement and potential complications. Nurses and healthcare providers must be able to accurately document and communicate this information to facilitate appropriate treatment and follow-up care for clients with tonsillar issues.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Bleeding gums and dark, tarry stools. When a client is prescribed medications that depress thrombocytes (platelets), it puts them at risk for bleeding due to decreased clotting ability. Bleeding gums and dark, tarry stools are indicative of internal bleeding, a common manifestation of thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). Option A) Sore throat is incorrect because it is not a typical sign of thrombocytopenia. Platelet suppression does not directly cause a sore throat. Option C) Pernicious anemia is unrelated to thrombocytopenia. Pernicious anemia is a type of anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency, not platelet suppression. Option D) Thickening of blood is not a common sign of decreased platelets. In fact, a low platelet count often leads to bleeding tendencies due to impaired clotting, not thickening of blood. Educationally, understanding the effects of thrombocyte suppression is crucial for nurses to recognize and manage potential complications in patients. Monitoring for signs of bleeding, such as bleeding gums and dark, tarry stools, is essential for early detection and intervention to prevent serious consequences like hemorrhage. Nurses must be vigilant in assessing patients on thrombocyte-depressing medications to ensure timely and appropriate care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In hematology, understanding the need for iron at different life stages is crucial for providing optimal care. The correct answer to the question, "What is the period in life when the need for iron increases?" is A) Pregnancy. During pregnancy, the body's demand for iron significantly rises to support the developing fetus and increased blood volume in the mother. Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to both the mother and the baby. Infancy (Option B) is a period of life where there is also an increased need for iron due to rapid growth and development. However, the most critical period for increased iron requirements is during pregnancy. Old age (Option C) is not typically associated with an increased need for iron. In fact, iron overload can be a concern in the elderly population due to age-related conditions and diseases. Male reproductive years (Option D) do not inherently lead to an increased need for iron unless there are specific health conditions present that may cause iron deficiency. Educationally, understanding the nuances of iron requirements at different life stages is essential for healthcare professionals working in hematology and obstetrics. By recognizing the specific periods of increased need for iron, practitioners can effectively assess, diagnose, and treat patients to promote optimal health outcomes.