Hematologic Disorders and Anemia Q 45

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The nurse devises a teaching plan for the patient with aplastic anemia. Which of the following is the most important concept to teach for health maintenance?

  

     A. Eat animal protein and dark leafy vegetables each day.

     B. Avoid exposure to others with acute infection.

     C. Practice yoga and meditation to decrease stress and anxiety.

     D. Get 8 hours of sleep at night and take naps during the day.

    

    

Correct Answer: B. Avoid exposure to others with acute infection.

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Clients with aplastic anemia are severely immunocompromised and at risk for infection and possible death related to bone marrow suppression and pancytopenia. Strict aseptic technique and reverse isolation are important measures to prevent infection. Although diet, reduced stress, and rest are valued in supporting health, the potentially fatal consequence of an acute infection places it as a priority for teaching the client about health maintenance.

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Option A: Animal meat and dark green leafy vegetables, good sources of vitamin B12 and folic acid, should be included in the daily diet. A balanced diet that includes a variety of foods from each food group usually contains essential nutrients needed to promote RBC formation. Clients need to have an adequate intake of dark-green leafy vegetables, animal products, including fish, meat, poultry, eggs, milk, and fortified breakfast cereals.

Option C: Yoga and meditation are good complementary therapies to reduce stress. Assist the client in developing a schedule for daily activity and rest. Stress the importance of frequent rest periods. Energy reserves may be depleted unless the client respects the body’s need for increased rest. A plan that balances periods of activity with periods of rest can help the client complete desired activities without adding levels to fatigue.

Option D: Eight hours of rest and naps are good for spacing and pacing activity and rest. Educate energy-conservation techniques. Clients and caregivers may need to learn skills for delegating tasks to others, setting priorities, and clustering care to use the available energy to complete desired activities. Organization and time management can help the client conserve energy and reduce fatigue.

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