1. The client/caregiver can explain disease process of thrombocytopenia.
   1. It is a disorder in which there are not enough platelets.
   2. Platelets are necessary to help blood clot.
   3. It can result in abnormal bleeding.
2. The client/caregiver can list symptoms and possible complications of thrombocytopenia.
   1. Symptoms are
      • Bruising easily
      • Nosebleeds or bleeding in the mouth
      • Rash that resembles pinpoint red spots
   2. Possible complications are
      • Hemorrhage
      • Bleeding in the brain (intracranial hemorrhage)
      • Bleeding in the gastrointestinal system (blood in stool or vomit)
3. The client/caregiver can explain self-care measures.
   1. Report to physician or to emergency care if any unexplained bleeding or excessive bruising should occur.
   2. If you have been told that your platelet count is low, you should
      1. Avoid drugs such as aspirin
      2. Avoid alcohol
      3. Seek physician approval before participating in contact sports

Resource

National Institutes of Health
www.nlm.nih.gov/

National Library of Medicine MedlinePlus
www.medlineplus.gov

References

Ackley, B. J., & Ladwig, G. B. (2006). Nursing diagnosis handbook: A guide to planning care. Philadelphia: Mosby Inc.
Cohen, B. J., & Wood, D. L. (2000). Memmler’s the Human Body in Health and Disease (9th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Taylor, C., Lillis, C., & LeMone, P. (2005). Fundamentals of nursing. Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins.
Timby, B. K., & Smith, N. C. (2003). Introductory medical-surgical nursing (8th ed.). Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Credits

Client Teaching Guides for Home Health Care, 2nd ed.
© 2008 Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc.
www.jbpub.com