On admission, a child with leukemia has widespread purpura and a platelet count of 19,000/mm3. What is the priority nursing intervention?
a. Assessing neurological status
b. Inserting an intravenous line
c. Monitoring vital signs during platelet transfusions
d. Providing family education about how to prevent bleeding
ANS: A
When platelets are low, the greatest danger is spontaneous intracranial bleeding. Neurological assessments are therefore a priority of care.
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