Hinkle Chapter 33: Management of Patients With Nonmalignant Hematologic Disorders

A client comes to the walk-in clinic complaining of weakness and fatigue. While assessing this client, the nurse finds evidence of petechiae and ecchymoses. The nurse notes that the spleen appears enlarged. What would the nurse suspect is wrong with this client?

aplastic anemia Clients with a plastic anemia experience all the typical characteristics of anemia (weakness and fatigue). In addition, they have frequent opportunistic infections plus coagulation abnormalities that are manifested by unusual bleeding, small skin hemorrhages called petechiae, and ecchymoses (bruises). The spleen becomes enlarged with an accumulation of the client's blood cells destroyed by lymphocytes that failed to recognize them as normal cells, or with an accumulation of dead transfused blood cells. The blood cell count shows insufficient numbers of blood cells. A bone marrow aspiration confirms that the production of stem cells is suppressed. This scenario does not describe a client with pernicious anemia, iron-deficiency anemia, or agranulocytosis.

An client has pernicious anemia and has been receiving treatment for several years. Which symptom may be confused with another condition in older adults?

dementia Pernicious anemia may be accompanied by a dementia with symptoms similar to Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, clients experiencing cognitive changes should be screened because early detection of pernicious anemia is critical to prevent neurologic damage.

The nurse is caring for a client with type 2 diabetes who take metformin to manage glucose levels. The nurse recognizes the client may be most at risk for which vitamin deficiency?

b12 The medication metformin (Glucophage) increases the client's risk for developing B12 deficiency because the medication inhibits the absorption of B12.

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" 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.

A health care provider prescribes one tablet of ferrous sulfate daily for a 15-year-old girl who experiences heavy blood flow during her menstrual cycle. The nurse advises the patient and her parent that this over-the-counter preparation must be taken for how many months before stored iron replenishment can occur?

6-12 months Ferrous sulfate can increase hemoglobin levels in a few weeks, and anemia may be corrected in a few months. However, it takes 6 to 12 months for stored iron replenishment to occur.

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 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 patient with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) has developed anemia. What laboratory finding does the nurse understand to be significant in this stage of anemia?

Creatinine level of 6 mg/100 mL The degree of anemia in patients with end-stage renal disease varies greatly; however, in general, patients do not become significantly anemic until the serum creatinine level exceeds 3 mg/100 mL.

A client is receiving chemotherapy for cancer. The nurse reviews the client's laboratory report and notes that he has thrombocytopenia. To which nursing diagnosis should the nurse give the highest priority?

Ineffective tissue perfusion: Cerebral, cardiopulmonary, GI These are all appropriate nursing diagnoses for the client with thrombocytopenia. However, the risk of cerebral and GI hemorrhage and hypotension pose the greatest risk to the physiological integrity of the client.

Which client is most at risk for developing disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)?

a client with amniotic fluid embolism The client with the amniotic fluid embolism is at greatest risk for developing DIC. Other risk factors for developing DIC include trauma, cancer, shock, and sepsis. Possible cocaine overdose, a stage IV pressure ulcer, and heart failure and renal failure aren't risk factors for DIC.

A client being treated for iron deficiency anemia with ferrous sulfate continues to be anemic despite treatment. The nurse should assess the client for use of which medication?

aluminum hydroxide The nurse should assess the client for possible use of antacids such as aluminum hydroxide. Clients should take ferrous sulfate and an antacid at least 2 hours apart because antacids bind with iron in the GI tract, decreasing the rate or extent of iron absorption.

A client with multiple myeloma reports pain along the spinal column. The client is prescribed naproxen (Aleve) and oxycodone. Prior to administering these medications, the nurse

checks BUN and creatinine Naproxen may cause renal dysfunction. It will be important to check and monitor the BUN and creatinine levels, which are indicators of renal function. Because of the disease, the client is not to lift more than 10 pounds and is to use correct body mechanics, by bending with the knees and not bending with the back. Both naproxen and oxycodone may be prescribed for bone pain for a client who has multiple myeloma.

Which term refers to an abnormal decrease in white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets?

pancytopenia Pancytopenia is defined as an abnormal decrease in WBCs, RBCs, and platelets. The condition may be congenital or acquired. Anemia refers to decreased red cell mass. Leukopenia refers to a less-than-normal amount of WBCs in circulation. Thrombocytopenia refers to a lower-than-normal platelet count.

The most common cause of iron deficiency anemia in men and postmenopausal women is

bleeding The most common cause of iron deficiency anemia in men and postmenopausal women is bleeding from ulcers, gastritis, inflammatory bowel disease or gastrointestinal (GI) tumors. Menorrhagia is the most common cause in premenopausal women. Iron malabsorption is another cause, which is seen in clients with celiac disease. Clients with chronic alcoholism often have chronic blood loss from the GI tract.

Which of the following is the most common hematologic condition affecting elderly patients

anemia 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.

When assessing a client with anemia, which assessment is essential?

health history, including menstrual history in women When assessing a client with anemia, it is essential to assess the client's health history. Women should be questioned about their menstrual periods (e.g., excessive menstrual flow, other vaginal bleeding) and the use of iron supplements during pregnancy.

Which iron-rich foods should a nurse encourage an anemic client requiring iron therapy to eat?

lamb and peaches Iron-rich foods include lamb and peaches. Shrimp, tomatoes, lobster, squash, cheese, and bananas aren't high in iron content.

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?

low ferritin level concentration 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 nurse is caring for a client with thalassemia who is being transfused. What is the nurse's role during a transfusion?

to closely monitor the rate of infusion In a client with thalassemia, when transfusions are necessary, the nurse closely monitors the rate of administration. Assessing for enlargement and tenderness over the liver and spleen, advising rest, or administering vitamin B12 injections are not indicated for thalassemia.

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 for the rest of my life" 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 home care nurse visits a client diagnosed with atrial fibrillation who is ordered warfarin. The nurse teaches the client about warfarin therapy. Which statement by the client indicates the need for further teaching?

"I'll eat four servings of fresh, dark green vegetables every day" The client requires additional teaching if he states that he'll eat four servings of dark green vegetables every day. Dark, green vegetables contain vitamin K, which reverses the effects of warfarin. The client should limit his intake to one to two servings per day. The client should report bleeding gums and severe or unexplained bruising, which may indicate an excessive dose of warfarin. The client should use an electric razor to prevent cutting himself while shaving.

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?

"I'll see a genetic counselor before starting a family." 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.

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.

Blood loss Abnormal erythrocyte production Destruction of normally formed red blood cells 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, sickle cell 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 nurse cares for several clients with anemia and notes that all the clients have different types of anemia. What is the nurse's best understanding of how anemias are classified, based on the deficiency of erythrocytes? Select all that apply.

Defective production of erythrocytes Destruction of erythrocytes Loss of erythrocytes A physiologic approach classifies anemia according to whether the deficiency in erythrocytes is caused by a defect in their production (i.e., hypoproliferative anemia), by their destruction (i.e., hemolytic anemia), or by their loss (i.e., bleeding). Shape and quantity of erythrocytes are not categories of classifications of anemia.

A nurse cares for a client with aplastic anemia. Which laboratory results will the nurse expect to find with this client? Select all that apply.

Neutrophil count 12,000/microliter Hemoglobin 7 g/dL Platelets 35,000 microliters Aplastic anemia causes pancytopenia, or overall decrease to all myeloid stem cell-derived cells. Pancytopenia manifests as neutrophil count less than 15,000/ microliter, hemoglobin less than 10 g/dL, and platelets less than 50,000/microliter.

A client with multiple myeloma is complaining of severe pain when the nurse comes in to give a bath and change position. What is the priority intervention by the nurse?

Obtain the pain medication and delay the bath and position change until the medication reaches its peak. When pain is severe, the nurse delays position changes and bathing until an administered analgesic has reached its peak concentration level and the client is experiencing maximum pain relief. Pain medication should never be delayed to assist in the control of the level of pain. Pain will not be relieved by a bath and clean sheets, only analgesics at this point in the client's illness.

The nurse's role in the management of polycythemia vera is primarily that of an educator. Choose the best health promotion advice that a nurse could give.

Participate in regular phlebotomy procedures to decrease blood viscosity. Phlebotomy is a critical part of therapy and the only treatment that has demonstrated improved survival. Aspirin should be avoided, and antiplatelet therapy should be used with caution due to the risk of bleeding. Compression stockings are not necessary for walking but should be used for airplane travel.

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 blood pressure has every produced bleeding under the skin or in the arm joints 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 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 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 client with anemia has been admitted to the medical-surgical unit. Which assessment findings are characteristic of iron deficiency anemia?

dyspnea, tachycardia, and pallor 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.

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 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 patient has a probable diagnosis of polycythemia vera. The nurse reviews the patient's lab work for which diagnostic indicator?

hematocrit 60% Although all results are elevated, the diagnostic indicator is the elevated hematocrit (normal = 42% to 52% for a male). These results are used in combination with other indicators (e.g., splenomegaly) for a definitive diagnosis.

A client has a history of sickle cell anemia with several sickle cell crises over the past 10 years. What blood component results in sickle cell anemia?

hemoglobin S Hemoglobin A (HbA) normally replaces fetal hemoglobin (HbF) about 6 months after birth. In people with sickle cell anemia, however, an abnormal form of hemoglobin, hemoglobin S (HbS), replaces HbF. HbS causes RBCs to assume a sickled shape under hypoxic conditions.

While monitoring a client for the development of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), the nurse should take note of which assessment parameters?

platelet count, prothrombin time, and partial thromboplastin time The diagnosis of DIC is based on the results of laboratory studies of prothrombin time, platelet count, thrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, and fibrinogen level as well as client history and other assessment factors. Blood glucose levels, WBC count, calcium levels, and potassium levels aren't used to confirm a diagnosis of DIC.

A young female client has pale nailbeds. Her hemoglobin count is 10.2 gm/dL and her hematocrit count is 30%. She reports fatigue and states, "I'm tired all the time." The client also reports excessive menstrual flow. The nurse assesses further and determines the client's diet is balanced and provides adequate calories. The client is prescribed supplemental iron therapy. The highest nursing diagnosis is

Altered tissue perfusion related to diminished oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood All the nursing diagnoses are appropriate for this client who is experiencing anemia. Physiological needs take priority per Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Under physiological needs, airway, breathing, and then circulation take priority. Altered tissue perfusion would be classified under circulation, thus making it the priority over the other diagnoses listed.

A nurse cares for a client with anemia requiring nutritional supplementation. Which nursing intervention best promotes client adherence with the prescribed therapy?

assist the client to incorporate the therapeutic regimen into daily activities The best way for the nurse to promote adherence to the therapeutic regimen is to assist the client to incorporate the therapeutic regimen into daily activities. This action is the only answer choice that is a collaborative effort with the client and is the reason it is correct.

While assessing a client, the nurse will recognize what as the most obvious sign of anemia?

pallor On physical examination, pallor is the most common and obvious sign of anemia. Other findings may include tachycardia and flow murmurs. Patients with hemolytic anemia may exhibit jaundice and splenomegaly.

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 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.

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 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.

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 K 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 client admitted to the hospital in preparation for a splenectomy to treat autoimmune hemolytic anemia asks the nurse about the benefits of splenectomy. Which statement best explains the expected effect of splenectomy?

It will remove the major site of red blood cell (RBC) destruction. For clients with autoimmune hemolytic anemia, if corticosteroids do not produce remission, a splenectomy (i.e., removal of the spleen) may be performed because it removes the major site of RBC destruction.

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?

hemoglobin level 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 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 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.

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 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 admitted with pernicious anemia. Which set of findings should the nurse expect when assessing the client?

pallor, tachycardia, and sore tongue 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 patient had gastric bypass surgery 3 years ago and now, experiencing fatigue, visits the clinic to determine the cause. The patient takes pantoprazole for the treatment of frequent heartburn. What type of anemia is this patient at risk for?

pernicious anemia A deficiency of vitamin B 12 can occur in several ways. Inadequate dietary intake is rare but can develop in strict vegans (who consume no meat or dairy products). Faulty absorption from the GI tract is a more common cause. This occurs in conditions such as Crohn's disease, or after ileal resection or gastrectomy.

A nurse should expect to administer which vaccine to the client after a splenectomy?

pneumovax 23 Pneumovax 23, a polyvalent pneumococcal vaccine, is administered prophylactically to prevent the pneumococcal sepsis that sometimes occurs after splenectomy. Recombivax HB is a vaccine for hepatitis B. Attenuvax is a live, attenuated virus vaccine for immunization against measles (rubeola). Tetanus toxoid is administered to prevent tetanus resulting from impaired skin integrity caused by traumatic injury.

Which of the following is considered an antidote to heparin?

protamine sulfate Protamine sulfate, 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.

A nurse provides nutritional information for a patient diagnosed with an iron-deficiency anemia. What education should the nurse provide?

increase the intake of green leafy vegetables 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 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?

administering and evaluating the effectiveness of opioid analgesics 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 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?

consult with the physician about discontinuing heparin 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.

The nurse observes a co-worker who always seems to be eating a cup of ice. The nurse encourages the co-worker to have an examination and diagnostic workup with the health care provider. What type of anemia is the nurse concerned the co-worker may have?

iron deficiency anemia People with iron deficiency anemia may crave ice, starch, or dirt; this craving is known as pica.

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 may indicate deficiencies in essential nutrients A nutritional assessment is important, because it may indicate deficiencies in essential nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and folate.

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 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 humidifiers should be changed every 24 hours.

The nurse is talking with the parents of a toddler who was diagnosed with hemophilia A. What instruction should the nurse give to the parents?

Administer factor VIII intravenously at the first sign of bleeding Clients and families are taught to administer factor VIII intravenously. This helps to prevent bleeding episodes. Activities that minimize trauma are allowed for the toddler, however, playground activities may place the toddler at risk for increased bleeding. Over-the-counter cold preparations are to be avoided because they will interfere with platelet aggregation. Nasal packing is avoided because when the nasal packing is removed, bleeding may occur.

A nurse on a hematology/oncology floor is caring for a client with aplastic anemia. Which would not be included in the client's discharge instructions?

Use a disposable razor when shaving. People with aplastic anemia usually have insufficient erythrocytes, leukocytes, and platelets. Encourage behaviors that will lower the risk for bleeding. Avoiding contact with people who are sick reduces the risk of acquiring an infection. Handwashing reduces the risk of acquiring an infection. Anemia can cause fatigue and shortness of breath with even mild exertion.

A client with sepsis is experiencing disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). The client is bleeding from mucous membranes, venipuncture sites, and the rectum. Blood is present in the urine. The nurse establishes the nursing diagnosis of Risk for deficient fluid volume related to bleeding. The most appropriate and measurable outcome for this client is that the client exhibits

Urine output greater than or equal to 30 mL/hour All options could be expected outcomes for a nursing diagnosis of risk for deficient fluid volume. However, the key words are most appropriate and measurable. That would be the option relating to urine output, which is the most direct measurement listed of fluid volume.

A young client is diagnosed with a mild form of hemophilia and is experiencing bleeding in the joints with pain. In preparing the client for discharge, what instructions should the nurse provide?

wear a medical identification bracelet Clients with hemophilia should wear a medical identification bracelet about having this disease. Ibuprofen interferes with platelet aggregation and may increase the client's bleeding. A warm bath may lessen pain but increase bleeding. Genetic testing and counseling are not necessary for male clients, because females are the carriers of the genetic material for hemophilia.

A client is seen in the emergency department with severe pain related to a sickle cell crisis. What does the nurse understand is occurring with this client?

vascular occlusion in smaller vessels decreasing blood and oxygen to the tissues The person with sickle cell disease repeatedly suffers from two major problems: (1) episodes of sickle cell crisis from vascular occlusion, which develops rapidly under hypoxic conditions, and (2) chronic hemolytic anemia. During a sickle cell crisis, the sickle-shaped cells lodge in small blood vessels, where they block the flow of blood and oxygen to the affected tissue. The vascular occlusion induces severe pain in the ischemic tissue. The client may have increased tolerance for pain due to the chronic nature of the illness. Bone marrow increases the erythrocyte production. Underhydration increases the client's risk of developing a vaso-occlusive crisis.

The nurse is educating a client about iron supplements. The nurse teaches that what vitamin enhances the absorption of iron?

C 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 client with sickle cell anemia has a

low hematocrit 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.

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?

neurologic involvement 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 collecting data for a client who has been diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia. What subjective findings does the nurse recognize as symptoms related to this type of anemia?

"I have difficulty breathing when walking 30 feet" 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. The client would feel cold and not hot. The client is fatigue and able to sleep often with a decrease in appetite, not an increase.

Which of the following are assessment findings associated with thrombocytopenia? Select all that apply.

Hematemesis Epistaxis Bleeding gums Pertinent findings of thrombocytopenia include: bleeding gums, epistaxis, hematemesis, hypotension, and tachypnea.

When evaluating a patient's symptoms that are consistent with a diagnosis of leukemia, the nurse is aware that all leukemias have which common feature?

Unregulated accumulation of white cells in the bone marrow, which replace normal marrow elements The term leukemia means "white blood," which is used to describe the neoplastic proliferation of one hematopoietic cell type (granulocytes, monocytes, lymphocytes, and sometimes, erythrocytes and megakaryocytes).

A male client has a hemoglobin count of 10.2 gm/dl, a hematocrit value of 36%, and a low ferritin level. What question should the nurse ask first?

have you experienced abdominal pain The laboratory data support that the client has iron-deficiency anemia. The most common cause of iron-deficiency anemia in men is bleeding from ulcers, gastritis, inflammatory bowel disease, or gastrointestinal tumors. People who experience these problems may report abdominal pain. The nurse will make further assessments and may ask the other questions.

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 10 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.

An older adult client who is a vegetarian has a hemoglobin of 10.2 gm/dL, vitamin B12 of 68 pg/mL (normal: 200-900 pg/mL), and MCV of 110 cubic micrometers. After interpreting the data, what instruction should the nurse give to the client?

supplement the diet with vitamin B12 Data support that the client is experiencing megaloblastic anemia. Findings include the laboratory test results, the client's older age, and the client's status as a vegetarian. Many vegetarians need to supplement their diet with vitamin B12. Eating more foods with vitamin B12 will not provide enough of this vitamin for the client's body. Increasing iron sources will not resolve the client's anemia. Telling the client to discontinue the vegetarian practice and eat red meat is nontherapeutic.

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?

osteoporosis 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.

When a nurse is planning discharge teaching for a client admitted with sickle cell crisis, which information should the nurse include in the teaching?

Receive pneumococcal and annual influenza vaccinations Clients with sickle cell anemia must treat infections promptly with appropriate antibiotics; infections, particularly pneumococcal infections, can be serious. These clients should receive pneumococcal and annual influenza vaccinations.

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?

assess the hemoglobin level 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 nurse is caring for a client with thrombocytopenia. What is the best way to protect this client?

use the smallest needle possible for injections Because thrombocytopenia alters coagulation, it poses a high risk of bleeding. To help prevent capillary bleeding, the nurse should use the smallest needle possible when administering injections. The nurse doesn't need to limit visits by family members because they don't pose any danger to the client. The nurse should provide comfort measures and maintain the client on bed rest; activities such as using a wheelchair can cause bleeding. The nurse records fluid intake and output to monitor hydration; however, this action doesn't protect the client from a complication of thrombocytopenia.

A nurse cares for clients with hematological disorders and notes that women are diagnosed with hemochromatosis at a much lower rate than men. What is the primary reason for this?

women lose iron through menstrual cycles Hemochromatosis 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 hemochromatosis.

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 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.

A client with sickle cell disease informs the nurse that he is having chest pain. The nurse hears the client coughing, wheezing, and breathing rapidly. What does the nurse suspect is occurring with this client?

acute chest syndrome One of the unique manifestations of sickle cell disease is "acute chest syndrome," a type of pneumonia triggered by decreased hemoglobin and infiltrates in the lungs. Acute chest syndrome is characterized by respiratory symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, tachypnea, and chest pain. Vaso-occlusive crisis causes decrease in tissue perfusion and predisposes the client to pneumonia but is not the present problem with this client. Pneumocystis pneumonia is present in the client with HIV/AIDS or other immunocompromised clients. The client's symptoms do not correlate with a diagnosis of acute muscular strain.

The nurse, caring for a client in the emergency room with a severe nosebleed, becomes concerned when the client asks for a bedpan. The nurse documents the stool as loose, tarry, and black looking. The nurse suspects the client may have thrombocytopenia. What should be the nurse's priority action?

notify the physician Thrombocytopenia is evidenced by purpura, small hemorrhages in the skin, mucous membranes, or subcutaneous tissues. Bleeding from other parts of the body, such as the nose, oral mucous membrane, and the gastrointestinal tract, also occurs. Internal hemorrhage, which can be severe and even fatal, is possible. This nurse should notify the physician of the suspected disorder.

A client is prescribed 325 mg/day of oral ferrous sulfate. What does the nurse include in client teaching?

take 1 hour before breakfasts Instructions the nurse will provide for the client taking oral ferrous sulfate is to administer the medication on an empty stomach. Instructions also include that there is decreased absorption of iron with food, particularly dairy products. The client is to increase vitamin C intake (fruits, juices, tomatoes, broccoli), which will enhance iron absorption. The client is to also increase foods high in fiber to decrease risk of constipation.

A client with chronic anemia has received multiple transfusions. Which client action would the nurse be concerned about relative to the client's condition?

takes OTC supplements When a client receives multiple transfusions and takes iron supplements, there may be a problem with iron overload. It is recommended that clients who are experiencing anemia either avoid or limit alcohol due to interference of alcohol with utilization of essential nutrients. The typical U.S. diet includes 60 grams of protein daily. Clients may be prescribed multivitamins.

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 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.

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?

thrombocytopenia 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.

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. 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.