Thrombocytopenia
Topic: Medical-surgical
A platelet count below 150 × 10³/µL, from reduced production (chemotherapy, leukemia, bone marrow failure), increased destruction (immune thrombocytopenia, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, DIC) or pooling in the spleen. Petechiae, easy bruising, bleeding gums, nosebleeds and blood in the urine or stool are warning signs; at very low counts, spontaneous bleeding can occur. Use bleeding precautions: a soft toothbrush and electric razor, no IM injections or rectal procedures when avoidable, no aspirin or NSAIDs, and fall prevention; report any new bleeding.
- Also known as:
- Low platelet count, Low platelets
- In Turkish:
- Trombositopeni
What does Thrombocytopenia mean?
Thrombocytopenia is part of the Medical-surgical topic in nursing. Students meet it in class, on clinical placements and while preparing for exams.
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