Final answer:
In a plan of care for a child with leukopenia due to chemotherapy, the nurse should include monitoring for increased temperature due to the heightened risk of infection. Other considerations like administering oxygen are not specific to leukopenia without other indications such as respiratory distress. Bedrest and monitoring for bleeding are not primary interventions associated with leukopenia itself.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse is creating a plan of care for a child with leukopenia secondary to chemotherapy, several interventions must be considered to manage the child's condition effectively. One of the critical interventions would be to monitor for increased temperature. This is because patients with leukopenia are at higher risk of infections due to a reduced number of white blood cells (WBCs) that can fight off pathogens.
Maintaining bedrest is not specifically necessary unless the child is showing signs of extreme fatigue or other conditions that warrant bedrest. While oxygen administration (Administer O₂) may be necessary for patients with respiratory complications or distress, it is not specific to the management of leukopenia. Monitoring for bleeding is essential for thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), but leukopenia specifically refers to a low white blood cell count; therefore, while it's important to observe for any signs of infection, bleeding is not directly related to leukopenia.
Given that a child with leukopenia has an increased risk of infection, which could quickly become severe, monitoring temperature as a sign of infection is essential. An increased temperature can be an early indicator of infection, and prompt intervention and treatment are critical to prevent complications. Other interventions include practicing proper hand hygiene, avoiding exposure to sick individuals, and restricting visitors when necessary.