pancytopenia + HIT Flashcards
What is pancytopenia?
A decrease in all blood cells: RBCs, WBCs, and platelets.
What are key signs and symptoms of pancytopenia?
Fatigue (low RBCs), increased infections (low WBCs), bleeding/bruising (low platelets).
What diagnostic tests confirm pancytopenia?
Low RBCs, WBCs, platelets, and low clotting factors (prolonged PT/INR).
What are the primary medical treatments for pancytopenia?
Hematopoietic stem cell transplant, transfusion of packed RBCs and/or platelets.
What are the key nursing interventions for pancytopenia?
- Avoid large crowds, practice hand hygiene (infection risk)
- No contact sports, ambulate with caution (bleeding risk)
- Balance rest and activity to manage fatigue.
What types of medications are commonly prescribed for pancytopenia?
Varies based on cause. May include:
- Immunosuppressants (e.g. cyclosporine for aplastic anemia)
- Colony-stimulating factors (e.g. filgrastim for WBCs)
- Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (e.g. epoetin alfa for RBCs).
Key Signs of HIT/Bleeding Disorders?
Bleeding, bruising, tachycardia, hypertension, neuro signs (e.g. confusion, HA).
What is HIT?
Immune reaction to heparin → ↓ platelets + ↑ clot risk.
HIT Diagnostic Test?
Low platelets after heparin use; confirm with antibody or serotonin assay.
Medical/Nursing Role for HIT?
Stop heparin, start non-heparin anticoagulant (e.g. argatroban), monitor labs & bleeding.
Bleeding Precautions - Key Interventions?
Soft toothbrush, electric razor, no nose blowing/tweezing/piercings, report heavy periods.
What meds are used for HIT?
Argatroban (direct thrombin inhibitor), fondaparinux (Factor Xa inhibitor), steroids (immune).
