Question

The registered nurse (RN) is caring for a client with aplastic anemia who is hospitalized for weight loss and generalized weakness. Laboratory values show a white blood count (WBC) of 2,500/mm 3 and a platelet countof 160,000/mm 3. Which intervention is the primary focus in the client's plan of care for the RN to implement?

Assist with frequent ambulation.
Encourage visitors to visit.
Maintain strict protective precautions.
Avoid peripheral injections.

Answer 1

For a client with aplastic anemia and low white blood cell and platelet counts, the primary focus should be to maintain strict protective precautions to prevent infection and bleeding.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary focus in the plan of care for a client with aplastic anemia, low white blood count (WBC), and platelet count should be to maintain strict protective precautions. Aplastic anemia leads to a deficient number of stem cells for red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets, increasing the patient's risk for infections and bleeding. With leukopenia (a low WBC count) and a lower-than-average platelet count, the patient is at high risk for infection and should avoid potential sources of infection. Therefore, strict protective precautions, such as a sterile environment, mask usage, and hand hygiene, are essential to protect the client from pathogens. Peripheral injections should be avoided when possible because they could introduce infection and cause additional bleeding due to thrombocytopenia.