Olivia had coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery 3 days ago. Which of the following conditions is suspected by the nurse when a decrease in platelet count from 230,000 ul to 5,000 ul is noted?
A. Pancytopenia
B. Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)
C. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
D. Heparin-associated thrombosis and thrombocytopenia (HATT)
Correct Answer: D. Heparin-associated thrombosis and thrombocytopenia (HATT)
HATT may occur after CABG surgery due to heparin use during surgery.
Option B: ITP is a bleeding condition of unknown cause in which the blood fails to clot adequately because of a low circulating platelet count and a shortened platelet lifespan.
Option C: Although DIC causes platelet aggregation and bleeding, it is common in a client after revascularization surgery.
Option A: Pancytopenia is a reduction in all blood cells.