The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner is examining a 5yearold child who
has had recurrent fevers, bone pain, and a recent loss of weight. The physical exam reveals scattered petechiae, lymphadenopathy, and bruising. A complete blood count shows thrombocytopenia, anemia, and an elevated white cell blood count. The nurse practitioner will refer this child to a specialist for

Question

The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner is examining a 5­year­old child who
has had recurrent fevers, bone pain, and a recent loss of weight. The physical exam reveals scattered petechiae, lymphadenopathy, and bruising. A complete blood count shows thrombocytopenia, anemia, and an elevated white cell blood count. The nurse practitioner will refer this child to a specialist for

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms and laboratory findings are suggestive of a hematologic malignancy, such as leukemia or lymphoma. A bone marrow biopsy is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and determine further treatment options. Corticosteroids and IVIG may be used in the treatment of certain hematologic disorders, but a specialist should make that decision based on the results of the bone marrow biopsy. Hemoglobin electrophoresis and immunoglobulin testing are not indicated for these symptoms and laboratory findings.

The Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Is Examining a 5­year­old

The Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Is Examining a 5yearold