What it means
A set of nursing measures for clients with a high bleeding risk, such as a low platelet count, a clotting disorder, or treatment with anticoagulants or thrombolytics. They include a soft toothbrush and an electric razor, no intramuscular injections, rectal temperatures, enemas or suppositories when they can be avoided, pressure on needle sites for longer, no aspirin or NSAIDs unless ordered, and fall prevention.
For the nurse
Check the skin, gums, urine, stool and vomit for blood, and watch the platelet count. Teach the client to blow the nose gently, avoid straining at stool, and report bruising, nosebleeds, black stools or a sudden headache.
Related terms
platelet
A tiny cell fragment in the blood that sticks together at a wound to help form a clot.
anticoagulant
A drug that slows the blood's ability to form clots.
heparin
An anticoagulant drug, given by injection or IV, that keeps blood clots from forming or growing.
thrombocytopenia
A blood platelet count below normal, under 150,000/mm3.