Question

A client has a platelet count of 9800/mm3 (9800 10^9/L). What action by the nurse is most appropriate?

a. Assess the client for calf pain, warmth, and redness.
b. Instruct the client to call for help to get out of bed.
c. Obtain cultures as per the facility's standing policy.
d. Place the client on protective Isolation Precautions.

Answer 1

The most appropriate action is to assess the client for calf pain, warmth, and redness, as a platelet count of 9800/mm3 indicates severe thrombocytopenia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate action by the nurse when a client has a platelet count of 9800/mm3 is to assess the client for calf pain, warmth, and redness (option A). A platelet count of 9800/mm3 indicates severe thrombocytopenia, which can lead to spontaneous bleeding, particularly in the lower extremities. Assessing for calf pain, warmth, and redness is important to monitor for signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a potential complication of severe thrombocytopenia.