Question

The nurse is caring for an African American client with immune thrombocytopenia. Which locations are best to monitor for the presence of petechiae?

Answer 1

Petechiae are small red or purple spots on the skin that result from blood leaking out of damaged vessels. The best locations to monitor for petechiae include the skin, mucous membranes, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet. Regular monitoring of these areas is important in a client with immune thrombocytopenia.

Step-by-step explanation:

Petechiae are small red or purple spots on the skin that result from blood leaking out of damaged vessels. In a client with immune thrombocytopenia, it is important to monitor for the presence of petechiae, as it can indicate internal bleeding.

The best locations to monitor for petechiae include:

• The skin, particularly the arms and legs
• The mucous membranes, such as the inside of the mouth and the conjunctiva of the eyes
• The palms of the hands and the soles of the feet

Regularly checking these areas can help identify any new or worsening petechiae and allow for prompt medical intervention if necessary.