Final answer:
In a child with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a nurse would anticipate symptoms such as fatigue, frequent infections, anemia, enlarged lymph nodes, and possibly bleeding or bruising due to the production of abnormal blood cells in the bone marrow.
Step-by-step explanation:
When caring for a child with newly diagnosed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the nurse would anticipate several clinical findings. This type of cancer affects the white blood cells and starts in the bone marrow, leading to the production of abnormal blood cells. Common symptoms of ALL may include fatigue, frequent infections, unusual lumps or swelling, hemorrhage (bleeding), and enlarged lymph nodes. Specifically, a child with ALL may exhibit anemic symptoms due to impaired erythrocyte production, such as pallor or shortness of breath.
Additionally, the abnormal leukocytes may impair the body's ability to fight infections and may lead to symptoms such as fever and an increased number of infections. The leukemic cells can also infiltrate organs like the spleen, liver, and lymph nodes, causing enlargement and discomfort as seen in Olivia's case above.