Question

A 6-year-old child with leukemia is hospitalized and is receiving combination chemotherapy. Laboratory results indicate that the child is neutropenic, and the nurse prepares to implement protective isolation procedures. Which interventions would the nurse initiate? Select all that apply.

1. Restrict all visitors.
2. Place the child on a low-bacteria diet.
3. Change dressings using sterile technique.
4. Encourage the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables.
5. Perform meticulous handwashing before caring for the child.
6. Allow fresh-cut flowers in the room as long as they are kept in a vase with fresh water.

Answer 1

To protect a neutropenic child from infections, the nurse should restrict visitors, change dressings using sterile technique, and perform meticulous handwashing.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a 6-year-old child with leukemia is neutropenic, it means they have low levels of neutrophils, which are important white blood cells that fight infection. In order to protect the child from potential infections, the nurse should initiate the following interventions:

1. Restrict all visitors: This reduces the risk of exposure to infectious agents brought in by visitors.
2. Change dressings using sterile technique: This helps prevent contamination and infection at wound sites.
3. Perform meticulous handwashing before caring for the child: Proper hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of infection.