Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

During the assessment of a patient with suspected thrombocytopenia, what symptom should the nurse be alert for?

1. Petechiae and purpura

2. Excessive bruising

3. Prolonged bleeding from cuts

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

In assessing a patient for thrombocytopenia—a condition characterized by a low platelet count—the nurse should be vigilant for a variety of symptoms, each indicating potential bleeding complications associated with reduced platelet levels. Petechiae and purpura are small blood vessel abnormalities that manifest as tiny red or purple spots on the skin and larger areas of discoloration, respectively. They often arise due to the inability of the blood to clot properly, a hallmark of thrombocytopenia. Excessive bruising is another significant indicator, as it reflects the skin’s tendency to bleed beneath the surface without significant trauma—an event more common when platelet levels are low. Prolonged bleeding from cuts or injuries showcases the fundamental problem in thrombocytopenia: the body’s impaired ability to form clots quickly, leading to longer bleeding times than would typically occur. Thus, the nurse's awareness of all these symptoms provides a comprehensive approach to monitoring the patient’s condition effectively. Each symptom underscores the severity of thrombocytopenia and the urgency for medical intervention and management.