Questions About Chronic Diseases Related

Review Questions About Chronic Diseases related questions and content

A female client is being treated for a deep-vein thrombus she developed post-operatively about one week ago and was treated with unfractionated heparin. Today she presents to the clinic with petechiae on bilateral hands and feet. Laboratory results show a platelet count of 42,000/mm³. The nurse is concerned about a drug reaction and anticipates the client has which of the following?

  • A. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)
  • B. Hemophilia A (classic hemophilia)
  • C. Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)
  • D. Sickle cell crisis
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Heparin can backfire petechiae and a platelet plunge to 42,000/mm³ post-DVT treatment scream HIT, an immune reaction trashing platelets, risking clots. Hemophilia's genetic, not drug-tied. TTP adds fever, neuro signs absent here. Sickle crisis pains, not bleeds like this. Nurses suspect HIT, anticipating heparin cessation and alternatives, a twist in this anticoagulation tale.