The Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Is Examining a 5-Year-Old

The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner is examining a 5-year-old 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 what diagnostic testing?

A) bone marrow biopsy
B) corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)
C) hemoglobin electrophoresis
D) immunoglobulin testing