Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

Which safety directive should the nurse give to a patient with thrombocytopenia?

1. Eat foods high in iron

2. Avoid products that contain aspirin

3. Avoid people with respiratory tract infections

4. Eat only cooked vegetables

The correct answer is: Avoid products that contain aspirin

In the context of thrombocytopenia, which is a condition characterized by a low platelet count, it is crucial to focus on measures that prevent bleeding or further complications associated with reduced platelet levels. The correct advice to the patient is to avoid products that contain aspirin. Aspirin has antiplatelet properties, meaning it inhibits platelet function and can further increase the risk of bleeding, which is particularly concerning in someone with already compromised platelet counts. Providing this instruction emphasizes the importance of maximizing platelet function and minimizing any potential for bleeding. Patients with thrombocytopenia need to be conscious of any medications or substances that could exacerbate their condition, and avoiding aspirin is an essential measure to ensure their safety. While the other choices might seem relevant in certain contexts—for example, a diet high in iron could be beneficial in managing anemia, and avoiding raw foods could help reduce infection risk—the primary directive in cases of thrombocytopenia revolves around preventing bleeding complications, which makes avoiding aspirin the most critical advice in this scenario.