Osmosis video - Thrombocytopenia: Nursing

Thrombocytopenia is a medical condition characterized by a low platelet count in the blood. Normally, platelets are responsible for blood clotting, and a low platelet count can lead to bleeding, bruising, and other complications. Thrombocytopenia is said when platelet count falls below 150,000.

Thrombocytopenia can be caused by diseases that decrease platelet production, platelet sequestration in the spleen, or increase platelet destruction by non-immune or immune-mediated mechanisms. Diagnosis begins with a history and physical assessment, along with laboratory tests like a CBC, peripheral blood smear, and bone marrow biopsy. Treatment depends on the type of thrombocytopenia. Treatment of thrombocytopenia involves treating the underlying cause, and transfusing platelets when the platelet count is less than 10,000, or less than 50,000 if the patient is actively bleeding or about to undergo a major surgical procedure. Priority goals of nursing care for a client with thrombocytopenia include prevention and early detection of bleeding, as well as intervening when bleeding occurs. Client and family teaching focuses on lifestyle changes and safety precautions to prevent bleeding, and when to contact the healthcare provider.