When a client is diagnosed with aplastic anemia, the nurse monitors for changes in which of the following physiological functions?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bleeding tendencies. Aplastic anemia is characterized by decreased production of blood cells, leading to a low platelet count and increased risk of bleeding. Monitoring for changes in bleeding tendencies is crucial to assess the severity of the condition and intervene promptly if necessary. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are not directly related to the pathophysiology of aplastic anemia. Tracking intake and output is important for renal function, peripheral sensation for neurological assessment, and bowel function for gastrointestinal health, but they are not primary concerns in managing aplastic anemia.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why Choice B is correct: 1. Iron-deficiency anemia is due to low iron levels in the body. 2. Ferrous sulfate is a common iron supplement used to increase iron levels. 3. Non-enteric-coated form is preferred for better absorption. 4. Enteric-coated or sustained-release forms hinder absorption. Summary: A: Vitamin B12 is not used for iron-deficiency anemia. C: Enteric-coated or sustained-release forms hinder absorption. D: Whole blood transfusion is not the first-line treatment for iron-deficiency anemia.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Intestinal polyps. Intestinal polyps can cause long-term blood loss without noticeable symptoms because the blood loss is gradual and may not be enough to cause visible signs like anemia. Bleeding from the kidneys (A), heavy menstrual bleeding (B), and a ruptured blood vessel (D) are more likely to cause noticeable symptoms such as blood in urine, excessive menstrual bleeding, and sudden severe bleeding, respectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pancytopenia. Pancytopenia refers to a reduction in all three major blood cell types (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets). In the given scenario where the entire CBC is suppressed due to anemia, infection, or hemorrhage, it signifies a decrease in all blood cell types. A: Erythroplasia specifically refers to abnormal growth of red blood cells, not a suppression of all blood cell types. B: Thrombocytopenia is the reduction in platelet count, not all blood cell types. D: Leukopenia is the decrease in only white blood cells, not all blood cell types. Therefore, C is the correct answer in this context.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because both vitamin B12 and iron can have reduced absorption when taken with drugs that decrease stomach acid like PPIs and H2 blockers. This is due to the acidic environment in the stomach being necessary for the absorption of these nutrients. Therefore, taking them with these medications can lead to deficiencies. Methyldopa, metformin, and antibiotics do not directly interact with vitamin B12 or iron absorption, making them incorrect choices.