This is a group activity. For more information on groups, please see About Group Work.
Review the Group Discussion Document before you begin this discussion.
In this discussion, you will need to begin to explore your future role as a masters-prepared nurse and consider potential differential diagnoses for a child after reading a brief scenario.
In your initial post, please answer the following:
What are the priority areas of concern for the masters-prepared nurse to consider in reviewing the individual’s diagnostic test results?
What are the usual treatment options for individuals suffering from his condition based on the potential differential diagnoses?
Explain your rationale for your choices, citing resources from the literature.
John, a four-year-old boy, is being admitted to your unit for further treatment, management, and confirmation of diagnostic test results. His most recent complete blood count revealed a total white blood count of 250,000/µL. John has loss of appetite, is easily bruised, has gums that bleed frequently, and has marked fatigue. The physical exam reveals that he has splenomegaly, pale skin color, an oral temperature of 102°F, and some upper abdomen tenderness.
Answer the following questions as assigned by your role in the discussion.
Role 1: Considering the information presented, identify at least two differential diagnoses for John with rationale to support your decision. Discuss the pathophysiology issues that support your choices.
Role 2: Considering the differential diagnoses, what are the key assessments present and additional information needed to confirm a final diagnosis for John? Please explain.
Role 3: What would you expect the patient to look like? What are the risks associated with the medical and nursing interventions? What are your plans to address these potential risk factors as a master’s-prepared nurse?
Role 4: Write a succinct summary of the patient’s current status to present to the team in a brief plan of care. What you would expect to happen to the patient within the next 48 hours? Please be sure to identify any strengths and gaps in the plan of care.
For additional details, please refer to the Discussion Rubric document.
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