The nurse notes a reddened area on the forearm of a neutropenic child with leukemia.What action by the nurse is most appropriate?
A) Massage the area.
B) Turn the child more frequently.
C) Document the finding and continue to observe the area.
D) Notify the provider.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Skin is the first line of defense against infection.Any signs of infection in a child who is immunosuppressed must be reported.When a child is neutropenic,pus may not be produced,and the only sign of infection may be redness.The area should never be massaged.The forearm is not a typical pressure area; therefore the likelihood of the redness being related to pressure is very small.The observation should be documented,but because it may be a sign of an infection and immunosuppression,the physician must also be notified.

The Nurse Notes a Reddened Area on the Forearm of a Neutropenic