The nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with anemia.This morning's hematocrit level is 24%.Platelet level is 200,000/microliter.The nurse can expect to
A) continue monitoring the patient, as this hematocrit is normal.
B) administer platelets to help control bleeding.
C) give fresh frozen plasma to decrease prothrombin time.
D) provide RBC transfusion because this level is below the normal threshold.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Transfusion thresholds are established based on laboratory values and patient-specific variables.In general,a threshold for RBC transfusion is considered a hematocrit of 28% to 31%,based on the patient's cardiovascular tolerance.If angina or orthostasis is present,a higher threshold may be maintained.The threshold for transfusing platelets is usually between 20,000 and 50,000/microliter.Cryoprecipitate is usually infused if the fibrinogen level is less than 100 mg/dL.Fresh frozen plasma is used to correct a prolonged prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time or a specific factor deficiency.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Diagnosed with Anemia