Which assessment finding should the nurse caring for a patient with thrombocytopenia communicate immediately to the healthcare provider?

Questions 43

ATI RN

ATI RN Test Bank

ATI Perfusion Quizlet Questions

Question 1 of 5

Which assessment finding should the nurse caring for a patient with thrombocytopenia communicate immediately to the healthcare provider?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Difficulty in arousing the patient may indicate a cerebral hemorrhage, which is life-threatening and requires immediate action. While a low platelet count (choice A) is concerning in thrombocytopenia, it does not require immediate communication unless accompanied by active bleeding or other critical symptoms. Purpura on the oral mucosa (choice C) and large bruises on the patient's back (choice D) are important findings in thrombocytopenia but do not indicate an immediate life-threatening situation like a possible cerebral hemorrhage.

Question 2 of 5

The nurse is caring for a patient who is being discharged after an emergency splenectomy following a motor vehicle crash. Which instructions should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Wash hands regularly and avoid individuals who are ill.' After a splenectomy, the patient is at an increased risk of infection, particularly from gram-positive bacteria. Proper hand hygiene and avoiding contact with sick individuals are crucial to prevent infections. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because checking for swollen lymph nodes, watching for excessive bleeding or bruising, and taking iron supplements are not specifically related to the increased infection risk post-splenectomy.

Question 3 of 5

The nurse assesses a patient who has numerous petechiae on both arms. Which question should the nurse ask the patient?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Do you take medication containing salicylates?' Petechiae are tiny, pinpoint, red or purple spots on the skin due to bleeding under the skin. Salicylates, which are found in medications like aspirin, interfere with platelet function and can lead to petechiae and ecchymoses. Asking about salicylate-containing medications is crucial in this situation. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they are not directly related to the development of petechiae.

Question 4 of 5

A healthcare provider reviews the laboratory data for an older patient. The healthcare provider would be most concerned about which finding?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A low white blood cell (WBC) count in an older patient is concerning as it indicates a potential compromise in the patient's immune function. White blood cells are crucial for fighting infections and a low count could lead to an increased risk of infections. Hematocrit, hemoglobin, and platelet count are important parameters to assess, but a low WBC count takes priority in this case due to its direct impact on immune health.

Question 5 of 5

After a patient with pancytopenia undergoes a bone marrow aspiration from the left posterior iliac crest, which action would be important for the nurse to take?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: After a bone marrow aspiration, it is important to have the patient lie on the left side for 30 to 60 minutes to decrease the risk of bleeding. Elevating the head of the bed to 45 degrees does not directly address the risk of bleeding. Applying a sterile 2-inch gauze dressing to the site is important for wound care but does not specifically address post-procedural positioning. Using a half-inch sterile gauze to pack the wound is not necessary after a bone marrow aspiration.

Access More Questions!

ATI RN Basic


$89/ 30 days

ATI RN Premium


$150/ 90 days

Similar Questions