How long do erythrocytes circulate in the blood?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In hematology oncology, understanding the lifespan of erythrocytes (red blood cells) is crucial as it impacts the body's ability to maintain adequate oxygen levels. The correct answer is C) 120 days. Erythrocytes typically circulate in the blood for approximately 120 days before they are removed by the spleen and liver. Option A) 25 days is incorrect because this duration is too short for the lifespan of erythrocytes. Option B) 80 days is also incorrect as it falls short of the average lifespan of red blood cells. Option D) 60 days is incorrect because it is also shorter than the typical lifespan of erythrocytes. Educationally, knowing the lifespan of erythrocytes is essential for diagnosing and managing various hematologic disorders such as anemia. Understanding the normal turnover of red blood cells aids in interpreting lab results and identifying abnormalities in red cell production or destruction. This knowledge is fundamental for healthcare professionals working in fields such as hematology, oncology, and general medicine.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In hematology oncology, obtaining a dietary history when assessing a client with a disorder of the hematopoietic or lymphatic system is crucial for several reasons. Option A, "Compromised nutrition interferes with the production of blood cells and hemoglobin," is the correct answer because adequate nutrition is essential for the body's ability to produce blood cells and hemoglobin. Option B, "Diet consisting of excessive fat interferes with the production of blood cells and hemoglobin," is incorrect because while excessive fat intake can impact overall health, it is not specifically linked to interfering with blood cell and hemoglobin production. Option C, "Inconsistent dieting interferes with the production of blood cells and hemoglobin," is incorrect as well because while inconsistent dieting can lead to nutritional deficiencies, it does not directly interfere with blood cell and hemoglobin production. Option D, "Diet consisting of excessive iron and protein elements interferes with the production of blood cells and hemoglobin," is also incorrect. While iron and protein are essential for blood cell production, excessive intake of these elements is not typically associated with interference in blood cell and hemoglobin production. Educationally, understanding the relationship between nutrition and hematopoiesis is vital for nurses caring for clients with hematologic disorders. Proper nutrition can help support the body's ability to produce healthy blood cells and hemoglobin, which is essential for managing these conditions effectively. Therefore, nurses need to assess and address any nutritional deficiencies or issues that may impact the client's hematopoietic system.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Hypovolemia and shock. In a client with low blood volume, a decrease in blood pressure and a rapid heart rate indicate a significant loss of fluid volume in the body, leading to hypovolemia. This reduced circulating blood volume results in decreased perfusion to vital organs, triggering the body's compensatory mechanism of increasing heart rate to maintain adequate blood flow. If left unaddressed, hypovolemia can progress to shock, a life-threatening condition characterized by inadequate tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery. Option A) Compression of blood vessels due to blood loss is incorrect because while blood loss can lead to vessel constriction, it is not the major implication of decreasing blood pressure and rapid heart rate in the context of low blood volume. Option B) Increase in the circulating blood volume is incorrect as it contradicts the scenario presented in the question, which describes a client with low blood volume experiencing a decrease in blood pressure and rapid heart rate. Option C) Inadequate renal perfusion is incorrect as it focuses on the impact on the kidneys specifically, rather than addressing the broader implications of the client's overall hemodynamic status. Educationally, understanding the clinical manifestations and consequences of hypovolemia is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those working in hematology/oncology settings where patients may be at higher risk for blood volume deficits due to their conditions or treatment side effects. Recognizing the signs of hypovolemia and its progression to shock is vital for timely intervention and management to prevent further complications and ensure patient safety.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the assessment of a client with sickle cell anemia for jaundice, it is crucial for the nurse to inspect the skin and sclera for signs of yellowish discoloration, which are indicative of elevated bilirubin levels. This is because in sickle cell anemia, the breakdown of red blood cells is increased, leading to an excess of bilirubin that manifests as jaundice. By examining the skin and sclera, the nurse can detect this important clinical sign. Option A, which suggests assessing mental status, verbal ability, and motor strength, is incorrect as these assessments are not directly related to identifying jaundice in a client with sickle cell anemia. Option B, focusing on observing joints for signs of swelling, is also incorrect as jaundice is primarily a manifestation of liver dysfunction rather than joint involvement in sickle cell anemia. Option D, collecting a urine specimen, is not directly related to assessing jaundice in this context. In an educational context, understanding the specific signs and symptoms of sickle cell anemia, including jaundice, is vital for nurses caring for these clients. Proper assessment techniques can lead to early identification of complications and prompt intervention, ultimately improving patient outcomes. This question highlights the importance of thorough assessment skills and knowledge of disease-specific manifestations in hematology oncology nursing practice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Maintain the client on bed rest and protect him or her from infections. Rationale: Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder characterized by the body's inability to produce enough hemoglobin, leading to anemia. Nursing interventions for a client with thalassemia aim to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Bed rest is essential to reduce oxygen demand on the body and prevent fatigue, which is crucial for individuals with anemia. Additionally, protecting the client from infections is important because they are more susceptible due to their compromised immune system. Option B) Ambulate the client frequently is incorrect as excessive physical activity can worsen anemia by increasing oxygen demand on the body, leading to fatigue and other complications. Option C) Advising drinking 3 quarts (L) of fluid per day is not specifically indicated for thalassemia. While adequate hydration is important for overall health, excessive fluid intake can strain the heart in individuals with certain types of thalassemia. Option D) Instructing the client to elevate the lower extremities as much as possible is not a standard nursing intervention for thalassemia. Elevating the lower extremities may be beneficial for conditions like edema but is not a primary intervention for managing thalassemia. Educational Context: Nurses caring for clients with thalassemia must understand the importance of implementing appropriate interventions to prevent complications and promote optimal health outcomes. Educating patients about the disease process, symptom management, and lifestyle modifications is crucial in providing holistic care to individuals with thalassemia. By adhering to evidence-based nursing interventions, nurses can effectively support clients in managing their condition and improving their quality of life.