A nurse is planning care for a preschooler who has neutropenia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?
A.
Avoid raw fruits and vegetables in the child’s diet.
B.
Administer vaccines prior to discharge.
C.
Obtain the child’s rectal temperature once daily.
D.
Bathe the child every other day.
The correct answer is:
A. Avoid raw fruits and vegetables in the child’s diet.
Explanation:
Neutropenia is a condition characterized by a low level of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell crucial for fighting infections. For a preschooler with neutropenia, the following interventions are appropriate:
- A. Avoid raw fruits and vegetables in the child’s diet: Raw fruits and vegetables can carry harmful bacteria and other pathogens, which can be dangerous for someone with a compromised immune system. Cooking fruits and vegetables helps reduce the risk of infection.
- B. Administer vaccines prior to discharge: While vaccines are important for general health, they may not be appropriate to administer during a period of neutropenia, as the child’s immune system may be too compromised to respond effectively.
- C. Obtain the child’s rectal temperature once daily: Rectal temperatures can increase the risk of infection and are generally avoided in neutropenic patients. Oral or axillary temperatures are preferred.
- D. Bathe the child every other day: Frequent bathing is important for maintaining hygiene, especially in a neutropenic patient. Daily bathing or at least regular hygiene measures are often recommended to reduce the risk of infection.
Correct answer: A