Ch. 33: Mgmt of Pts w/ Nonmalignant Hematologic Disorders
The nurse is educating a client about iron supplements. The nurse teaches that what vitamin enhances the absorption of iron? C A D E
C Explanation: Vitamin C facilitates the absorption of iron. Therefore, iron supplements should be taken with a glass of orange juice or a vitamin C tablet to maximize absorption.
A nurse working with clients diagnosed with sickle cell disease notices that sickle cell crisis cases increase in the winter months. What is the primary pathophysiological reason for this? Colder temperatures slows the blood flow. Colder temperatures worsens sickling. Colder temperatures increases vessel pressures. Colder temperatures impairs oxygen uptake.
Colder temperatures slows the blood flow. Explanation: Colder temperatures lead to vasoconstriction, which slows the blood flow. Colder temperatures do not worsen sickling or impair oxygen uptake. Vasoconstriction does increase vessel pressures but the vessel pressures are not the reason that sickle cell crisis increases with colder temperatures.
A patient with End Stage Kidney Disease is taking recombinant erythropoietin for the treatment of anemia. What laboratory study does the nurse understand will have to be assessed at least monthly related to this medication? Potassium level Creatinine level Hemoglobin level Folate levels
Hemoglobin level Explanation: When using recombinant erythropoietin, the hemoglobin must be checked at least monthly (more frequently until a maintenance dose is established) and the dose titrated to ensure the hemoglobin level does not exceed 12 g/dL.
A nurse is caring for a client admitted with pernicious anemia. Which set of findings should the nurse expect when assessing the client? Pallor, bradycardia, and reduced pulse pressure Pallor, tachycardia, and a sore tongue Sore tongue, dyspnea, and weight gain Angina pectoris, double vision, and anorexia
Pallor, tachycardia, and a sore tongue Explanation: Pallor, tachycardia, and a sore tongue are all characteristic findings in pernicious anemia. Other clinical manifestations include anorexia; weight loss; a smooth, beefy red tongue; a wide pulse pressure; palpitations; angina pectoris; weakness; fatigue; and paresthesia of the hands and feet. Bradycardia, reduced pulse pressure, weight gain, and double vision aren't characteristic findings in pernicious anemia.
A client at the clinic has just been diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia. What would you recommend the client consume to promote the absorption of iron? Vitamin E Meat, egg yolks, oysters, and shellfish Rich sources of vitamin C Sources of vitamin B12
Rich sources of vitamin C Explanation: Sources of vitamin C such as citrus fruits and juices, strawberries, green peppers, and tomatoes enhance the absorption of nonheme iron. To maximize nonheme iron absorption, the client should consume a rich source of vitamin C at every meal. Meat, egg yolks, oysters, and shellfish are the sources of heme iron whose absorption is influenced by body need. Vitamin E and sources of vitamin B12 do not promote the absorption of iron.
A client with megaloblastic anemia reports mouth and tongue soreness. What instruction will the nurse give the client regarding eating while managing the client's symptoms? "Eat small amounts of bland, soft foods frequently." "Eat larger amounts of bland, soft foods less frequently." "Eat cold, bland foods with a large amount of water." "Eat low-fiber blended foods only."
"Eat small amounts of bland, soft foods frequently." Explanation: Because the client with megaloblastic anemia often reports mouth and tongue soreness, the nurse should instruct the client to eat small amounts of bland, soft foods frequently. The other answer choices do not factor in the client's mouth soreness or need for nutrition.
Which of the following is the most common hematologic condition affecting elderly patients Anemia Thrombocytopenia Leukopenia Bandemia
Anemia Explanation: Anemia is the most common hematologic condition affecting elderly patients: with each successive decade of life, the incidence of anemia increases. Thrombocytopenia is a low platelet count. Leukopenia is a low leukocyte count. Bandemia is an increased number of band cells.
A nurse caring for a client who has hemophilia is getting ready to take the client's vital signs. What should the nurse do before taking a blood pressure? Ask if taking a blood pressure has ever produced bleeding under the skin or in the arm joints. Ask if taking a blood pressure has ever produced pain in the upper arm. Ask if taking a blood pressure has ever caused bruising in the hand and wrist. Ask if taking a blood pressure has ever produced the need for medication.
Ask if taking a blood pressure has ever produced bleeding under the skin or in the arm joints. Explanation: Before taking a blood pressure, the nurse asks the client if the use of a blood-pressure cuff has ever produced bleeding under the skin or in the arm joints. Options B, C, and D are incorrect.
Which is a symptom of hemochromatosis? Bronzing of the skin Inflammation of the mouth Inflammation of the tongue Weight gain
Bronzing of the skin Explanation: Clients with hemochromatosis exhibit symptoms of weakness, lethargy, arthralgia, weight loss, and loss of libido early in the illness trajectory. The skin may appear hyperpigmented from melanin deposits or appear bronze in color.
A patient with chronic renal failure is examined by the health care provider for anemia. Which laboratory results will the nurse monitor? Decreased level of erythropoietin Decreased total iron-binding capacity Increased mean corpuscular volume Increased reticulocyte count
Decreased level of erythropoietin Explanation: As renal function decreases, erythropoietin, which is produced by the kidney, also decreases. Because erythropoietin is produced outside the kidney, some erythropoiesis continues, even in patients whose kidneys have been removed. However, the number of red blood cells produced is small and the degree of erythropoiesis is inadequate.
A thin client is prescribed iron dextran intramuscularly. What is most important action taken by the nurse when administering this medication? Employs the Z-track technique Uses a 23-gauge needle Injects into the deltoid muscle Rubs the site vigorously
Employs the Z-track technique Explanation: When iron medications are given intramuscularly, the nurse uses the Z-track technique to avoid local pain and staining of the skin. The gluteus maximus muscle is used. The nurse avoids rubbing the site vigorously and uses a 189- or 20-gauge needle.
The nurse is performing an assessment for a client with anemia admitted to the hospital to have blood transfusions administered. Why would the nurse need to include a nutritional assessment for this patient? It is part of the required assessment information. It is important for the nurse to determine what type of foods the patient will eat. It may indicate deficiencies in essential nutrients. It will determine what type of anemia the patient has.
It may indicate deficiencies in essential nutrients. Explanation: A nutritional assessment is important, because it may indicate deficiencies in essential nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and folate.
During the review of morning laboratory values for a client reporting severe fatigue and a red, swollen tongue, the nurse suspects chronic, severe iron deficiency anemia based on which finding? Elevated hematocrit concentration Enlarged mean corpuscular volume (MCV) Low ferritin level concentration Elevated red blood cell (RBC) count
Low ferritin level concentration Explanation: The most consistent indicator of iron deficiency anemia is a low ferritin level, which reflects low iron stores. As the anemia progresses, the MCV, which measures the size of the erythrocytes, also decreases. Hematocrit and RBC levels are also low in relation to the hemoglobin concentration.
A nursing instructor is evaluating a student caring for a neutropenic client. The instructor concludes that the nursing student demonstrates accurate knowledge of neutropenia based on which intervention? Monitoring the client's temperature and reviewing the client's complete blood count (CBC) with differential Monitoring the client's breathing and reviewing the client's arterial blood gases Monitoring the client's heart rate and reviewing the client's hemoglobin Monitoring the client's blood pressure and reviewing the client's hematocrit
Monitoring the client's temperature and reviewing the client's complete blood count (CBC) with differential Explanation: Clients with neutropenia often do not exhibit classic signs of infection. Fever is the most common indicator of infection, yet it is not always present. No definite symptoms of neutropenia appear until the client develops an infection. A routine CBC with differential can reveal neutropenia before the onset of infection.
A client with a diagnosis of pernicious anemia comes to the clinic complaining of numbness and tingling in his arms and legs. What do these symptoms indicate? Loss of vibratory and position senses Neurologic involvement Severity of the disease Insufficient intake of dietary nutrients
Neurologic involvement Explanation: In clients with pernicious anemia, numbness and tingling in the arms and legs and ataxia are the most common signs of neurologic involvement. Some affected clients lose vibratory and position senses. Jaundice, irritability, confusion, and depression are present when the disease is severe. Insufficient intake of dietary nutrients is not indicated by these symptoms
The nurse is caring for an older adult client who has a hemoglobin of 9.6 g/dL and a hematocrit of 34%. To determine where the blood loss is coming from, what intervention can the nurse provide? Observe stools for blood. Observe the gums for bleeding after the client brushes teeth. Observe the sputum for signs of blood. Observe client for facial droop.
Observe stools for blood. Explanation: Iron-deficiency anemia is unusual in older adults. Normally, the body does not eliminate excessive iron, causing total body iron stores to increase with age and necessitating maintenance of hydration. If an older adult is anemic, blood loss from the gastrointestinal or genitourinary tracts is suspected. Observing the stool for blood will help detect blood from GI loss. Bleeding gums may indicate periodontal disease, or anticoagulation from medication is not related to age. Blood in sputum can be an indicator of various lung disorders that may affect all age groups. Facial droop may indicate an impending stroke or Bell's palsy and would not be a reason for blood loss.
A nurse is caring for a client with iron deficiency anemia. Which food or beverage will the nurse suggest to the client to eat or drink when taking supplemental iron? Milk Orange juice Leafy green vegetables Kidney beans
Orange juice Explanation: Vitamin C found in orange juice improves the absorption of iron. The other answer choices are not the best for improving absorption of iron.
A client diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus comes to the emergency department with severe back pain. The client is taking prednisone daily and reported feeling pain after manually opening the garage door. What adverse effect of long-term corticosteroid therapy is most likely responsible for the pain? Hypertension Osteoporosis Muscle wasting Truncal obesity
Osteoporosis Explanation: Hypertension, osteoporosis, muscle wasting, and truncal obesity are all adverse effects of long-term corticosteroid therapy; however, osteoporosis commonly causes compression fractures of the spine. Hypertension, muscle wasting, and truncal obesity aren't likely to cause severe back pain.
A client awaiting a bone marrow aspiration asks the nurse to explain where on the body the procedure will take place. What body part does the nurse identify for the client? Posterior iliac crest Sternum Femur Ankle
Posterior iliac crest Explanation: In adults, bone marrow is usually aspirated from the posterior iliac crest and rarely from the sternum. Bone marrow is not aspirated from the femur or ankle.
Which of the following is considered an antidote to heparin? Protamine sulphate Vitamin K Narcan Ipecac
Protamine sulphate Explanation: Protamine sulphate, in the appropriate dosage, acts quickly to reverse the effects of heparin. Vitamin K is the antidote to warfarin (Coumadin). Narcan is the drug used to reverse signs and symptoms of medication-induced narcosis. Ipecac is an emetic used to treat some poisonings.
The nurse obtains a unit of blood for the client, Donald D. Smith. The name on the label on the unit of blood reads Donald A. Smith. All the other identifiers are correct. What action should the nurse take? Administers the unit of blood Checks with Blood Bank first and then administers the blood with their permission Refuses to administer the blood Asks the client if he was ever known as Donald A. Smith
Refuses to administer the blood Explanation: To ensure a safe transfusion, all components of the identification must be correct. The nurse should refuse to administer the blood and notify the Blood Bank about the discrepancy. The Blook Bank should then take the necessary steps to correct the name on the label on the unit of blood.
A client is treated for anemia. What is the nurse's best understanding about the correlation between anemia and the client's iron stores? There is a strong correlation between iron stores and hemoglobin levels. There is a strong correlation between iron stores and hemoglobin characteristics. There is an inverse relationship between iron stores and hemoglobin levels. There is a weak correlation between iron stores and hemoglobin levels.
There is a strong correlation between iron stores and hemoglobin levels. Explanation: A strong correlation exists between laboratory values that measure iron stores and hemoglobin levels. After iron stores are depleted (as reflected by low serum ferritin levels), the hemoglobin level falls.
After receiving chemotherapy for lung cancer, a client's platelet count falls to 98,000/mm3. What term should the nurse use to describe this low platelet count? Anemia Leukopenia Thrombocytopenia Neutropenia
Thrombocytopenia Explanation: A normal platelet count is 140,000 to 400,000/mm3 in adults. Chemotherapeutic agents produce bone marrow depression, resulting in reduced red blood cell counts (anemia), reduced white blood cell counts (leukopenia), and reduced platelet counts (thrombocytopenia). Neutropenia is the presence of an abnormally reduced number of neutrophils in the blood and is caused by bone marrow depression induced by chemotherapeutic agents.
Folate deficiency occurs in people who rarely eat which of the following? Uncooked vegetables Meat Fruit Bread
Uncooked vegetables Explanation: Folate is found in green vegetables and liver. Folate deficiency occurs in people who rarely eat uncooked vegetables. Meat, fruit, and bread generally would not cause a folate deficiency.
During preparation for bowel surgery, a client receives an antibiotic to reduce intestinal bacteria. The nurse knows that hypoprothrombinemia may occur as a result of antibiotic therapy interfering with synthesis of which vitamin? Vitamin A Vitamin D Vitamin E Vitamin K
Vitamin K Explanation: Intestinal bacteria synthesize such nutritional substances as vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, vitamin B12, folic acid, biotin, and nicotinic acid. Antibiotic therapy may interfere with synthesis of these substances, including vitamin K. Intestinal bacteria don't synthesize vitamins A, D, or E.
A nurse cares for clients with hematological disorders and notes that women are diagnosed with hemochromacytosis at a much lower rate than men. What is the primary reason for this? Women lose iron through menstrual cycles Women rarely manifest the gene expression Women have lower hemoglobin levels Women require grater folic acid supplementation
Women lose iron through menstrual cycles Explanation: Hemochromacytosis is a genetic condition where excess iron is absorbed in the GI tract and deposited in various organs, making them dysfunctional. Women are often less affected than men because women lose excess iron through their menstrual cycles. The other answer choices are not correct reasons why women are impacted less than men with hemochromacytosis.
A client with sickle cell anemia has a low hematocrit. high hematocrit. normal hematocrit. normal blood smear.
low hematocrit. Explanation: A client with sickle cell anemia has a low hematocrit and sickled cells on the smear. A client with sickle cell trait usually has a normal hemoglobin level, a normal hematocrit, and a normal blood smear.
Parents arrive to the clinic with their young child and inform the nurse the child has just been diagnosed with sickle cell disease. The parents ask the nurse how this could have happened and which one of them is the carrier. What is the best response by the nurse? "Most likely, the father is the carrier of the gene." "The trait is passed down through the mother." "The child must inherit two defective genes, one from each parent." "It is an acquired, not a hereditary disorder."
"The child must inherit two defective genes, one from each parent." Explanation: Sickle cell disease is a hereditary disorder. To manifest this disorder, a person must inherit two defective genes, one from each parent, in which case all the hemoglobin is inherently abnormal. If the person inherits only one gene, he or she carries sickle cell trait. The hemoglobin of those who have sickle cell trait is about 40% affected. The other distractors are incorrect due to these factors.
A complete blood count is commonly performed before a client goes into surgery. What does this test seek to identify? Potential hepatic dysfunction indicated by decreased blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels Low levels of urine constituents normally excreted in the urine Abnormally low hematocrit (HCT) and hemoglobin (Hb) levels Electrolyte imbalance that could affect the blood's ability to coagulate properly
Abnormally low hematocrit (HCT) and hemoglobin (Hb) levels Explanation: Low preoperative HCT and Hb levels indicate the client may require a blood transfusion before surgery. If the HCT and Hb levels decrease during surgery because of blood loss, the potential need for a transfusion increases. Possible renal failure is indicated by elevated BUN or creatinine levels. Urine constituents aren't found in the blood. Coagulation is determined by the presence of appropriate clotting factors, not electrolytes.
A client with sickle cell crisis is admitted to the hospital in severe pain. While caring for the client during the crisis, which is the priority nursing intervention? Limiting the client's intake of oral and IV fluids Administering and evaluating the effectiveness of opioid analgesics Encouraging the client to ambulate immediately Limit foods that contain folic acid
Administering and evaluating the effectiveness of opioid analgesics Explanation: The priority nursing intervention is to manage the acute pain. Client-controlled analgesia is frequently used in the acute care setting. A patient with sickle cell crisis experiences severe extreme pain, the use of IV fluids and oral intake is need to hydrate the patient, the patient is initially placed on bed rest during the crisis due to extreme fatigue. The patient must continue to ingest folic acid and are placed on a daily folic acid supplement .
A client is brought to the ED reporting fatigue, large amounts of bruising on the extremities, and abdominal pain localized in the left upper quadrant. A health history reveals the xlient has been treated for a sore throat three times in the past 2 months. Laboratory tests indicate severe anemia, significant neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia. Based on the symptoms, what could be the client's diagnosis? Iron deficiency anemia Sickle cell anemia Aplastic anemia Hemolytic anemia
Aplastic anemia Explanation: Aplastic anemia can be congenital or acquired, but most cases are idiopathic. It can be triggered by infection. The manifestations of aplastic anemia are symptoms of anemia, purpura (bruising), retinal hemorrhages, significant neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia. Other lymphadenopathies and splenomegaly sometimes occur.
The client has been diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome with an absolute neutrophil count less than 1000/mm³ and is being admitted to the hospital. The nurse Assigns the client to a private room Allows unlicensed assistive personnel who reports having a sore throat to provide care Places the client in isolation and allows no visitors Changes the water in the humidifier for oxygen therapy every 48 hours
Assigns the client to a private room Explanation: The client with an absolute neutrophil count less than 1000/mm³ is to be placed in a private room. Staff with a sore throat or cold should not be assigned to provide care for this client. The client does not need to be placed in isolation, but other neutropenic precautions needs to be followed, such as allowing no visitors with infection. Water in oxygen humdifiers should be changed every 24 hours.
A client is found to have a low hemoglobin and hematocrit when laboratory work was performed. What does the nurse understand the anemia may have resulted from? Select all that apply. Infection Blood loss Abnormal erythrocyte production Destruction of normally formed red blood cells Inadequate formed white blood cells
Blood loss Abnormal erythrocyte production Destruction of normally formed red blood cells Explanation: Most anemias result from (1) blood loss, (2) inadequate or abnormal erythrocyte production, or (3) destruction of normally formed red blood cells. The most common types include hypovolemic anemia, iron-deficiency anemia, pernicious anemia, folic acid deficiency anemia, sicklecell anemia, and hemolytic anemias. Although each form of anemia has unique manifestations, all share a common core of symptoms. Anemia does not result from infection or inadequate formed white blood cells.
A client reports feeling tired, cold, and short of breath at times. Assessment reveals tachycardia and reduced energy. What would the nurse expect the physician to order? CBC antibiotic chest radiograph ECG
CBC Explanation: Most clients with iron-deficiency anemia have reduced energy, feel cold all the time, and experience fatigue and dyspnea with minor physical exertion. The heart rate usually is rapid even at rest. The CBC and hemoglobin, hematocrit, and serum iron levels are decreased. A CBC would be ordered.
A client with anemia has been admitted to the medical-surgical unit. Which assessment findings are characteristic of iron deficiency anemia? Nights sweats, weight loss, and diarrhea Dyspnea, tachycardia, and pallor Nausea, vomiting, and anorexia Itching, rash, and jaundice
Dyspnea, tachycardia, and pallor Explanation: Signs of iron deficiency anemia include dyspnea, tachycardia, and pallor, as well as fatigue, listlessness, irritability, and headache. Night sweats, weight loss, and diarrhea may signal acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Nausea, vomiting, and anorexia may be signs of hepatitis B. Itching, rash, and jaundice may result from an allergic or hemolytic reaction.
A nurse provides nutritional information for a patient diagnosed with an iron-deficiency anemia. What education should the nurse provide? Decrease the intake of citrus fruits because they interfere with iron absorption. Take an iron supplement with meals to reduce gastric irritation. Increase the intake of green, leafy vegetables. Decrease the intake of high-fat red meats, especially organ meats.
Increase the intake of green, leafy vegetables. Explanation: Red meats, especially organ meats, are iron-rich foods that should be encouraged. Vitamin C sources (citrus fruit and juices) enhance the absorption of iron, which should be taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
A client with a diagnosis of pernicious anemia comes to the clinic and reports numbness and tingling in the arms and legs. What do these symptoms indicate? Loss of vibratory and position senses Neurologic involvement Severity of the disease Insufficient intake of dietary nutrients
Neurologic involvement Explanation: In clients with pernicious anemia, numbness and tingling in the arms and legs, and ataxia are the most common signs of neurologic involvement. Some affected clients lose vibratory and position senses. Jaundice, irritability, confusion, and depression are present when the disease is severe. Insufficient intake of dietary nutrients is not indicated by these symptoms.
The nurse observes the laboratory studies for a client in the hospital with fatigue, feeling cold all of the time, and hemoglobin of 8.6 g/dL and a hematocrit of 28%. What finding would be an indicator of iron-deficiency anemia? Erythrocytes that are microcytic and hypochromic Erythrocytes that are macrocytic and hyperchromic Clustering of platelets with sickled red blood cells An increased number of erythrocytes
Erythrocytes that are microcytic and hypochromic Explanation: A blood smear reveals erythrocytes that are microcytic (smaller than normal) and hypochromic (lighter in color than normal). It does not reveal macrocytic (larger than normal) or hyperchromic erythrocytes. Clustering of platelets with sickled red blood cells would indicate sickle cell anemia. An increase in the number of erythrocytes would indicate polycythemia vera.
A client admitted to the hospital with abdominal pain, anemia, and bloody stools reports feeling weak and dizzy. The client has rectal pressure and needs to urinate and move their bowels. The nurse should help them: to the bathroom. to the bedside commode. onto the bedpan. to a standing position so he can urinate.
onto the bedpan. Explanation: A client who's dizzy and anemic is at risk for injury because of his weakened state. Assisting him with the bedpan would best meet his needs at this time without risking his safety. The client may fall if walking to the bathroom, left alone to urinate, or trying to stand up.
A client with pernicious anemia is receiving parenteral vitamin B12 therapy. Which client statement indicates effective teaching about this therapy? "I will receive parenteral vitamin B12 therapy until my signs and symptoms disappear." "I will receive parenteral vitamin B12 therapy until my vitamin B12 level returns to normal." "I will receive parenteral vitamin B12 therapy monthly for 6 months to a year." "I will receive parenteral vitamin B12 therapy for the rest of my life."
"I will receive parenteral vitamin B12 therapy for the rest of my life." Explanation: Because a client with pernicious anemia lacks intrinsic factor, oral vitamin B12 can't be absorbed. Therefore, parenteral vitamin B12 therapy is recommended and required for life.
A few minutes after beginning a blood transfusion, a nurse notes that a client has chills, dyspnea, and urticaria. The nurse reports this to the health care provider immediately because the client probably is experiencing which problem? A hemolytic reaction to mismatched blood A hemolytic reaction to Rh-incompatible blood A hemolytic allergic reaction caused by an antigen reaction A hemolytic reaction caused by bacterial contamination of donor blood
A hemolytic allergic reaction caused by an antigen reaction Explanation: Hemolytic allergic reactions are fairly common and may cause chills, fever, urticaria, tachycardia, dyspnoea, chest pain, hypotension, and other signs of anaphylaxis a few minutes after blood transfusion begins. Although rare, a hemolytic reaction to mismatched blood can occur, triggering a more severe reaction and, possibly, leading to disseminated intravascular coagulation. A hemolytic reaction to Rh-incompatible blood is less severe and occurs several days to 2 weeks after the transfusion. Bacterial contamination of donor blood causes a high fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and, possibly, shock.
The nurse is caring for an older adult client who has been admitted to the unit with anemia. What would the nurse expect the client to possibly exhibit? Excessive consumption of coffee or tea Elimination of iron by the body Decrease in the total body iron stores with age Blood loss from the gastrointestinal or genitourinary tract
Blood loss from the gastrointestinal or genitourinary tract Explanation: If an older adult is anemic, blood loss from the gastrointestinal or genitourinary tract is suspected. This is because iron-deficiency anemia is unusual in older adults as the body does not eliminate excessive iron, causing total body iron stores to increase with age. Excessive consumption of coffee or tea is not a causative factor for anemia in older adults.
Vitamin B and folic acid deficiencies are characterized by production of abnormally large erythrocytes called blast cells. megaloblasts. mast cells. monocytes.
megaloblasts. Explanation: Megaloblasts are abnormally large erythrocytes. Blast cells are primitive white blood cells (WBCs). Mast cells are cells found in connective tissue involved in defense of the body and coagulation. Monocytes are large WBCs that become macrophages when they leave the circulation and move into body tissues.
A female patient has a hemoglobin of 6.4 g/dL and is preparing to have a blood transfusion. Why would it be important for the nurse to obtain information about the patient's history of pregnancy prior to the transfusion? A high number of pregnancies can increase the risk of reaction. If the patient has never been pregnant, it increases the risk of reaction. Obtaining information about gravidity and parity is routine information for all female patients. If the patient has been pregnant, she may have developed allergies.
A high number of pregnancies can increase the risk of reaction. Explanation: The patient history is an important component of the pretransfusion assessment to determine the history of previous transfusions as well as previous reactions to transfusion. The history should include the type of reaction, its manifestations, the interventions required, and whether any preventive interventions were used in subsequent transfusions. The nurse assesses the number of pregnancies a woman has had, because a high number can increase her risk of reaction due to antibodies developed from exposure to fetal circulation.
When teaching a client with iron deficiency anemia about appropriate food choices, the nurse encourages the client to increase the dietary intake of which foods? Beans, dried fruits, and leafy, green vegetables Fruits high in vitamin C, such as oranges and grapefruits Berries and orange vegetables Dairy products
Beans, dried fruits, and leafy, green vegetables Explanation: Food sources high in iron include organ meats (e.g., beef or calf liver, chicken liver), other meats, beans (e.g., black, pinto, and garbanzo), leafy and green vegetables, raisins, and molasses. Taking iron-rich foods with a source of vitamin C (e.g., orange juice) enhances the absorption of iron.
The nurse and the client are discussing some strategies for ingesting iron to combat the client's iron-deficiency anemia. Which is among the nurse's strategies? Drink liquid iron preparations with a straw. Take iron with an antacid to avoid stomach upset. Avoid vitamin C as it prevents absorption. Taking iron pills with milk aids in absorption.
Drink liquid iron preparations with a straw. Explanation: Dilute liquid preparations of iron with another liquid such as juice and drink with a straw to avoid staining the teeth. Avoid taking iron simultaneously with an antacid, which interferes with iron absorption. Drink orange juice or take other forms of vitamin C with iron to promote its absorption.
A pregnant woman is hospitalized as the result of sickle-cell crisis. Which finding indicates the outcome has been achieved for this client? Reports joint pain less than 3 on a scale of 0 to 10 Takes hydroxyurea during her pregnancy Exhibits a temperature more than 100.3°F Describes the importance of staying cool
Reports joint pain less than 3 on a scale of 0 to 10 Explanation: An expected outcome for a client experiencing a sickle-cell crisis is control and reduction of pain. Hydroxyurea is contraindicated in pregnancy because of the risk it poses for congenital abnormalities. An indication that the client is free from infection is exhibiting a normal temperature; 100.3°F is an elevated temperature. To minimize crises, the client needs to stay warm not cool.
A patient is taking prednisone 60 mg per day for the treatment of an acute exacerbation of Crohn's disease. The patient has developed lymphopenia with a lymphocyte count of less than 1,500 mm3. What should the nurse monitor the client for? The onset of a bacterial infection Bleeding Abdominal pain Diarrhea
The onset of a bacterial infection Explanation: Lymphopenia (a lymphocyte count less than 1,500/mm3) can result from ionizing radiation, long-term use of corticosteroids, uremia, infections (particularly viral infections), some neoplasms (e.g., breast and lung cancers, advanced Hodgkin disease), and some protein-losing enteropathies (in which the lymphocytes within the intestines are lost) (Kipps, 2010). When lymphopenia is mild, it is often without sequelae; when severe, it can result in bacterial infections (due to low B lymphocytes) or in opportunistic infections (due to low T lymphocytes).
A client's family member asks the nurse why disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) occurs. Which statement by the nurse correctly explains the cause of DIC? "DIC is caused by abnormal activation of the clotting pathway, causing excessive amounts of tiny clots to form inside organs." "DIC occurs when the immune system attacks platelets and causes massive bleeding." "DIC is a complication of an autoimmune disease that attacks the body's own cells." "DIC is caused when hemolytic processes destroy erythrocytes."
"DIC is caused by abnormal activation of the clotting pathway, causing excessive amounts of tiny clots to form inside organs." Explanation: The inflammatory response initiates the process of inflammation and coagulation. The natural anticoagulant pathways within the body are simultaneously impaired, and the fibrinolytic system is suppressed, allowing a massive amount of tiny clots forms in the microcirculation. As the platelets and clotting factors form microthrombi, coagulation fails. Thus, the paradoxical result of excessive clotting is bleeding. Decline in organ function is usually a result of excessive clot formation (with resultant ischemia to all or part of the organ).
The nurse is educating a patient with iron deficiency anemia about food sources high in iron and how to enhance the absorption of iron when eating these foods. What can the nurse inform the client would enhance the absorption? Eating calf's liver with a glass of orange juice Eating leafy green vegetables with a glass of water Eating apple slices with carrots Eating a steak with mushrooms
Eating calf's liver with a glass of orange juice Explanation: Food sources high in iron include organ meats (e.g., beef or calf's liver, chicken liver), other meats, beans (e.g., black, pinto, and garbanzo), leafy green vegetables, raisins, and molasses. Taking iron-rich foods with a source of vitamin C (e.g., orange juice) enhances the absorption of iron.
A client in end-stage renal disease is prescribed epoetin alfa and oral iron supplements. Before administering the next dose of epoetin alfa and oral iron supplement, what is the priority action taken by the nurse? Assesses the hemoglobin level Questions the administration of both medications Ensures the client has completed dialysis treatment Holds the epoetin alfa if the BUN is elevated
Assesses the hemoglobin level Explanation: Erythropoietin (epoetin alfa [Epogen]) with oral iron supplements can raise hematocrit levels in the client with end-stage renal disease. The nurse should check the hemoglobin prior to administration of erythropoietin, because too high a hemoglobin level can put the client at risk for heart failure, myocardial infarction, and cerebrovascular accident. Erythropoietin may be administered during dialysis treatments. The BUN will be elevated in the client with end-stage renal disease.
A male client has been receiving a continuous infusion of weight-based heparin for more than 4 days. The client's PTT is at a level that requires an increase of heparin by 100 units per hour. The client has the laboratory findings shown above. What is the most important action for the nurse to take? Continue with the present infusion rate of heparin. Consult with the physician about discontinuing heparin. Begin treatment with the prescribed warfarin (Coumadin). Increase the heparin infusion by 100 units per hour.
Consult with the physician about discontinuing heparin. Explanation: Platelet counts may decrease with heparin therapy, and this client's platelet count has decreased. The client may have heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). Treatment of HIT includes discontinuing the heparin. The question asks about the most important action of the nurse and that is to consult with the physician about discontinuing heparin therapy. The nurse may continue with the current rate and should not increase the heparin dose until consulting with the physician. Warfarin is not administered until the platelet count has returned to normal levels.
A client receiving a blood transfusion experiences an acute hemolytic reaction. What is the nurse's priority intervention? Immediately stop the transfusion, infuse dextrose 5% in water (D5W), and call the health care provider. Slow the transfusion and monitor the client closely. Stop the transfusion, notify the blood bank, and administer antihistamines. Immediately stop the transfusion, infuse normal saline solution, call the health care provider, and notify the blood bank.
Immediately stop the transfusion, infuse normal saline solution, call the health care provider, and notify the blood bank. Explanation: When a transfusion reaction occurs, the transfusion should be immediately stopped, normal saline solution should be infused to maintain venous access, and the health care provider and blood bank should be notified immediately. Other nursing actions include saving the blood bag and tubing, rechecking the blood type and identification numbers on the blood tags, monitoring vital signs, obtaining necessary laboratory blood and urine samples, providing proper documentation, and monitoring and treating for shock. Because they can cause red blood cell hemolysis, dextrose solutions shouldn't be infused with blood products. Antihistamines are administered for a mild allergic reaction, not a hemolytic reaction.
A female client with the beta-thalassemia trait plans to marry a man of Italian ancestry who also has the trait. Which client statement indicates that she understands the teaching provided by the nurse? "Thalassemia is treated with iron supplements." "I need to learn how to give myself vitamin B12 injections." "I'll see a genetic counselor before starting a family." "If my fiancé was of Middle Eastern descent, I wouldn't be worried about having children."
"I'll see a genetic counselor before starting a family." Explanation: Two people with the beta-thalassemia trait have a 25% chance of having a child with thalassemia major, a potentially life-threatening disease. Iron supplements aren't used to treat thalassemia; in fact, they could contribute to iron overload. Vitamin B<!sub>12!sub> injections are used to treat pernicious anemia, not thalassemia. Thalassemia occurs primarily in people of Italian, Greek, African, Asian, Middle Eastern, East Indian, and Caribbean descent.
When assessing a client with a disorder of the hematopoietic or the lymphatic system, which assessment is most essential? Health history, such as bleeding, fatigue, or fainting Menstrual history Age and gender Lifestyle assessments, such as exercise routines
Health history, such as bleeding, fatigue, or fainting Explanation: When assessing a client with a disorder of the hematopoietic or the lymphatic system, it is essential to assess the client's health history. An assessment of drug history is essential because some antibiotics and cancer drugs contribute to hematopoietic dysfunction. Aspirin and anticoagulants may contribute to bleeding and interfere with clot formation. Because industrial materials, environmental toxins, and household products may affect blood-forming organs, the nurse needs to explore exposure to these agents. Menstrual history, age, gender, and lifestyle assessments, such as exercise routines and habits, do not directly affect the hematopoietic or lymphatic system.
A clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is orienting a new graduate registered nurse to an oncology unit where blood product transfusions are frequently administered. In discussing ABO compatibility, the CNS presents several hypothetical scenarios. The new graduate knows that the greatest likelihood of an acute hemolytic reaction would occur when giving: A-positive blood to an A-negative client. O-negative blood to an O-positive client. O-positive blood to an A-positive client. B-positive blood to an AB-positive client.
A-positive blood to an A-negative client. Explanation: An acute hemolytic reaction occurs when there is an ABO or Rh incompatibility. For example, giving A blood to a B client would cause a hemolytic reaction. Likewise, giving Rh-positive blood to an Rh-negative client would cause a hemolytic reaction. It's safe to give Rh-negative blood to an Rh-positive client if there is a blood type compatibility. O-negative blood is the universal donor and can be given to all other blood types. AB clients can receive either A or B blood as long as there isn't an Rh incompatibility.
A client is hospitalized 3 days prior to a total hip arthroplasty and reports a high level of pain with ambulation. The client has been taking warfarin at home, which is now discontinued. To prevent the formation of blood clots, which action should the nurse take? Administer the prescribed enoxaparin (Lovenox). Encourage a diet high in vitamin K. Have the client limit physical activity. Monitor partial thromboplastin (PTT) time.
Administer the prescribed enoxaparin (Lovenox). Explanation: Clients who are prescribed warfarin at home and need to have a major invasive procedure stop taking warfarin prior to the procedure. Low molecular weight heparin, such as enoxaparin, may be used until the procedure is performed. The client will continue with a diet that has a daily consistent amount of vitamin K. The client needs to ambulate frequently throughout the day. Prothrombin (PT) time is monitored, not PTT, when warfarin had been administered.
A nurse is doing a physical examination of a child with sickle cell anemia. When the child asks why the nurse auscultates the lungs and heart, what would be best the response by the nurse? To detect the abnormal sounds suggestive of acute chest syndrome and heart failure To detect the evidence of infection such as fever and tachycardia To detect the evidence of dehydration that might have triggered a sickle cell crisis To detect the motor strength and stroke-related signs and symptoms
To detect the abnormal sounds suggestive of acute chest syndrome and heart failure Explanation: The nurse auscultates the lungs and heart to detect abnormal sounds that indicate pneumonia, acute chest syndrome, and heart failure. The nurse assesses vital signs to detect evidence of infection, such as fever and tachycardia. During the physical examination, the nurse observes the client's appearance, looking for evidence of dehydration, which may have triggered a sickle cell crisis. The nurse assesses mental status, verbal ability, and motor strength to detect stroke-related signs and symptoms.
A client with severe anemia reports symptoms of tachycardia, palpitations, exertional dyspnea, cool extremities, and dizziness with ambulation. Laboratory test results reveal low hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Based on the assessment data, which nursing diagnoses is most appropriate for this client? Ineffective tissue perfusion related to inadequate hemoglobin and hematocrit Imbalanced nutrition, less than body requirements, related to inadequate intake of essential nutrients Risk for falls related to complaints of dizziness Fatigue related to decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit
Ineffective tissue perfusion related to inadequate hemoglobin and hematocrit Explanation: The symptoms indicate impaired tissue perfusion due to a decrease in the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Cardiac status should be carefully assessed. When the hemoglobin level is low, the heart attempts to compensate by pumping faster and harder in an effort to deliver more blood to hypoxic tissue. This increased cardiac workload can result in such symptoms as tachycardia, palpitations, dyspnea, dizziness, orthopnea, and exertional dyspnea. Heart failure may eventually develop, as evidenced by an enlarged heart (cardiomegaly) and liver (hepatomegaly) and by peripheral edema.