Thrombocytopenia stands for?

Appeared in: BHU NO - 2015

Explanation

Thrombocytopenia is defined as a reduced number of platelets (thrombocytes) in the blood.
The term breaks down into its roots: 'thrombo-' (platelet), 'cyto-' (cell), and '-penia' (deficiency), which literally means a deficiency of platelet cells.
A normal platelet count is between 150,000 and 450,000 platelets per microliter (µL) of blood.
Thrombocytopenia is diagnosed when the platelet count falls below 150,000/µL, increasing the risk of bleeding.

Option A: This describes a disorder of platelet function (thrombocytopathy), not platelet number. In such conditions, the platelet count can be normal, but they fail to aggregate properly.
Option C: An increased platelet count is the opposite of thrombocytopenia. The suffix for an increase in cells is '-cytosis'.
Option D: A normal platelet count is the healthy baseline and does not represent a pathological condition like thrombocytopenia.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition of Thrombocytopenia as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must diligently monitor patients with thrombocytopenia for any signs of bleeding, such as petechiae (pinpoint red spots), purpura (purple spots), ecchymosis (bruising), and bleeding from gums or nose.
Patient safety is a primary nursing concern. Key interventions include implementing bleeding precautions such as using a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding intramuscular injections and razors, and preventing falls.
What if? If a patient's platelet count is 600,000/µL, the condition is thrombocytosis. The nursing focus shifts from bleeding risk to monitoring for signs of thrombosis (clotting), such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the medical term 'Thrombocytopenia'.
Break down the term into its roots: 'Thrombo-' relates to thrombocytes (platelets), 'cyto-' means cell, and '-penia' means deficiency or lack.
Combine the roots to understand the meaning: 'deficiency of platelet cells'.
Evaluate the given options based on this definition. 'Reduced platelet count' is a direct and accurate match.
Eliminate the other options by identifying their correct definitions: 'Increased count' is thrombocytosis, and 'weakness of aggregation' describes a functional disorder (thrombocytopathy).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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