The complete blood count (CBC) indicates that a patient is ...

[lindiwe]

The complete blood count (CBC) indicates that a patient is thrombocytopenic. Which action should the nurse include in the plan of care?
 
  a. Avoid intramuscular injections.
  b. Encourage increased oral fluids.
  c. Check temperature every 4 hours.
  d. Increase intake of iron-rich foods.

Question 2

A patient who had a total hip replacement had an intraoperative hemorrhage 14 hours ago. Which laboratory result would the nurse expect to find?
 
  a. Hematocrit of 46
  b. Hemoglobin of 13.8 g/dL
  c. Elevated reticulocyte count
  d. Decreased white blood cell (WBC) count

[BAOCHAU2803]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Thrombocytopenia is a decreased number of platelets, which places the patient at high risk for bleeding. Neutropenic patients are at high risk for infection and sepsis and should be monitored frequently for signs of infection. Encouraging fluid intake and iron-rich food intake is not indicated in a patient with thrombocytopenia.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Hemorrhage causes the release of reticulocytes (immature red blood cells) from the bone marrow into circulation. The hematocrit and hemoglobin levels are normal. The WBC count is not affected by bleeding.