Question

Which statement indicates understanding of prophylactic platelet transfusions?

A. Platelet transfusion is not appropriate for the oncology patient population.
B. The transfusion should be initiated when platelet count reaches 20,000/mm3
C. Whole blood should be administered to preserve optimal benefit.
D. Treatment plans and patient factors should determine need for transfusion .

Answer 1

Statement D, which suggests that treatment plans and patient factors should determine the need for transfusion, indicates understanding of prophylactic platelet transfusions. Platelet transfusions are critical for maintaining hemostasis and may be necessary, particularly for oncology patients at risk of bleeding due to low platelet counts.

Step-by-step explanation:

Which statement indicates understanding of prophylactic platelet transfusions? The statement that demonstrates understanding is that treatment plans and patient factors should determine the need for transfusion.

Platelets are critical to hemostasis, which is the stoppage of blood flow following damage to a vessel. They are fragments of cytoplasm from a megakaryocyte. In the context of oncology patients, prophylactic platelet transfusions are typically considered when the platelet count falls below a certain threshold (often 20,000/mm³) to prevent bleeding complications.

It is not correct to say that platelet transfusion is inappropriate for the oncology patient population as it can be a necessary intervention. Also, the administration of whole blood for preserving platelets is not the standard approach; the transfusion would generally involve platelet concentrates. Lastly, the need for transfusion should always consider individual patient factors and specific treatment plans, as there are risks associated with transfusions.