Question

A 25-year-old woman with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus was admitted with a severe viral respiratory tract infection and diffuse petechiae. Based on these data, it is most important that the nurse further evaluate the client's recent:

-quality and quantity of food intake.
-type and amount of fluid intake.
-extent of weakness and fatigue.
-Length and amount of menstrual flow.

Answer 1

In the case of a 25-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus and viral respiratory infection presenting with petechiae, it is vital to assess the length and amount of her menstrual flow to evaluate for hematological complications such as thrombocytopenia.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the presented scenario of a 25-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and a severe viral respiratory infection accompanied by diffuse petechiae, it is most important for the nurse to further evaluate the length and amount of menstrual flow. SLE can lead to a variety of symptoms such as psychological fatigue, arthritis, and skin issues like a butterfly rash.

However, the presence of diffuse petechiae could indicate thrombocytopenia, a common hematological manifestation in SLE, which can be exacerbated during the menstrual cycle resulting in heavier or prolonged bleeding. The infection may also imply an increased risk of complications such as the spread of infection to the blood (sepsis). Therefore, an assessment of menstrual flow can provide critical insight into the patient's current hematological status and risk of hemorrhagic complications.