DEFINITION Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by abnormally

DEFINITION Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of thrombocytes, also known as platelets, in the blood.

CAUSES aplastic anemia. vitamin B-12 deficiency. folate deficiency. iron deficiency.

viral infections exposure to chemotherapy, radiation, or toxic chemicals. consuming too much alcohol. cirrhosis.

SYMPTOMS Easy or excessive bruising (purpura) Superficial bleeding into the skin that appears as a rash of pinpoint-sized reddishpurple spots (petechiae), usually on the lower legs. Swollen spleen

Prolonged Bleeding Blood bleeding from cuts. from your gums or nose. in urine or stools. Heavy menstrual periods Headaches Fatigue Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)

DIAGNOSIS CBC (complete blood count). This measures the number of your red and white blood cells and platelets. Blood smear. This shows how your platelets look under a microscope. Bone marrow test.

MEDICAL MANAGEMENT Steroid medicines to keep your body from destroying platelets if the problem is related to your immune system Intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) if you can’t take steroids or if you need a higher platelet count quickly Blood or platelets from a healthy person, called a transfusion Surgery to remove your spleen

NURSING MANAGEMENT Prevent bleeding. Review laboratory results for coagulation status as appropriate: platelet count, prothrombin time, fibrinogen, bleeding time, vitamin K, activated coagulation time educate the at-risk patient and caregivers about precautionary measures to prevent tissue trauma or disruption of the normal clotting mechanisms.

Prevent injury. Thoroughly conform patient to surroundings; put call light within reach and teach how to call for assistance; respond to call light immediately avoid use of restraints; obtain a physician’s order if restraints are needed eliminate or drop all possible hazards in the room such as razors, medications, and matches.

Prevent infection. Wash hands and teach patient and so to wash hands before contact with patients and between procedures with the patient encourage fluid intake of 2, 000 to 3, 000 m. L of water per day, unless contraindicated recommend the use of soft-bristled toothbrushes and stool softeners to protect mucous membranes; and if infection occurs, teach the patient to take antibiotics as prescribed; instruct

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