The nurse is teaching an adult patient diagnosed with bladder cancer about the signs and symptoms of chemo-induced thrombocytopenia, which include

Explanation

• Easy bruising occurs with patients who have a decreased platelet count, or thrombocytopenia. They should be informed about this sign to prevent hemorrhage and for early and proper intervention.

• Chemotherapy is not limited to cancer cells only. All rapidly dividing cells, including normal cells, will be injured. This can cause side effects like anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia due to bone marrow destruction.

• An elevated temperature may indicate infection because of low leukocytes.

• Shortness of breath can be a sign of fluid overload, respiratory disease, or decreased red cells.

• Fatigue can be a symptom of anemia.

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