Question

The nurse analyzes the laboratory values of a child with leukemia who is receiving chemotherapy. The nurse notes that the platelet count is 19,500 mm3 (19.5 × 109/L). On the basis of this laboratory result, which intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care?

Option 1: Initiate bleeding precautions.
Option 2: Monitor closely for signs of infection.
Option 3: Monitor the temperature every 4 hours.
Option 4: Initiate protective isolation precautions.

Answer 1

The nurse should initiate bleeding precautions in the plan of care for a child with leukemia whose platelet count is 19,500 mm3 (19.5 × 10^9/L) to prevent bleeding and complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include Option 1: Initiate bleeding precautions in the plan of care for the child with leukemia whose platelet count is 19,500 mm3 (19.5 × 109/L). A platelet count of 19,500 mm3 is below the normal range (150,000-450,000 mm3), indicating thrombocytopenia, which is a low platelet count. Thrombocytopenia puts the child at risk for bleeding and complications.