Physical assessment of a child with anemia may reveal cardinal
symptoms:- Pallor
- Fatigue
- Hypoxia
Absence of adequate white blood cells increases susceptibility to infection.
Insufficient platelets (thrombocytopenia, aplastic anemia) increase client
susceptibility for bleeding.
Genetic conditions should involve client and family support including
genetic counseling so family planning can be done and risks known.
Test results for the anemias will often include low red blood cell count
(anemia) and low platelet count.
Bone marrow support is needed to maintain adequate production of red
blood cells.
Hemophilia results in bleeding due to a disruption in clotting factor syn-
thesis.
ITP results in bleeding due to the reduction in platelet function.
Bleeding may be noted if platelets are reduced: - Diagnostic tests in coagulation-related conditions may include clot-
ting factors and
Whole blood clotting time
PT
PTT
TGT
Prothrombin consumption test
Fibrinogen level
Rest and support treatment such as oxygen and adequate nutrition are
beneficial to client success.
6CHAPTER 7/ The Hematologic System^143
FINAL CHECKUP
- A mother states that her 3-year-old girl was tired all the time and did not run
with her siblings. The nurse assesses that the child has pale skin and mucous
membranes and has muscle weakness. The child’s hemoglobin on admission is
6.4 g/dL. After notifying the physician of the assessment findings, which of the
following is the nurse’s next intervention?
a. Push oral and intravenous fluids to correct the dehydration.
b Decrease environmental stimulation to prevent seizures.
c. Have the laboratory repeat the analysis with a new specimen.
d. Decrease energy expenditure to decrease cardiac workload.
?