A nurse is creating a teaching plan for a client who has thrombocytopenia. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include? (Select all that apply.)
A.
Blow nose gently.
B.
Lubricate lips with water-soluble ointment.
C.
Use a straightedge razor to shave.
D.
Brush teeth with a soft toothbrush.
E.
Limit fruit consumption.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
For a client with thrombocytopenia, the correct instructions to include in a teaching plan are:
A. Blow nose gently.
B. Lubricate lips with water-soluble ointment.
D. Brush teeth with a soft toothbrush.
Explanation:
Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by low platelet counts, which increases the risk of bleeding. Thus, teaching clients strategies to minimize injury and bleeding is crucial.
A. Blow nose gently:
Patients with thrombocytopenia should avoid actions that can increase the risk of bleeding. Blowing the nose forcefully can lead to nosebleeds, so clients are advised to do this gently.
B. Lubricate lips with water-soluble ointment:
Dry lips can crack and bleed, presenting a risk for bleeding. Using a water-soluble ointment helps keep lips moist and reduces the chance of injury.
C. Use a straightedge razor to shave:
This instruction is incorrect. Clients should use an electric razor instead of a straight-edge razor to minimize the risk of cuts and bleeding.
D. Brush teeth with a soft toothbrush:
A soft toothbrush helps prevent gum injury and bleeding while maintaining oral hygiene. Hard bristles can cause gum damage and increase the risk of bleeding.
E. Limit fruit consumption:
This instruction is not necessary. While some fruits can be high in vitamin K (which can affect blood clotting), general fruit consumption is not contraindicated in thrombocytopenia unless specific dietary restrictions are indicated by a healthcare provider. Instead, focusing on a balanced diet is important.
In summary, teaching strategies for preventing bleeding and maintaining overall health are critical for clients with thrombocytopenia.