Instructions for a client with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) would include information about which of the following blood dyscrasias?
A. Dressler’s syndrome
B. Polycythemia
C. Essential thrombocytopenia
D. Von Willebrand’s disease
Correct Answer: C. Essential thrombocytopenia
Essential thrombocytopenia is linked to immunologic disorders, such as SLE and the human immunodeficiency virus.
Option A: Dressler’s syndrome is pericarditis that occurs after myocardial infarction and isn’t linked to SLE.
Option B: Moderate to severe anemia is associated with SLE, not polycythemia. It is found in about 50% of patients, with anemia of chronic disease being the most common form.
Option D: Von Willebrand disease is a blood disorder in which the blood doesn’t clot properly. Blood contains many proteins that help the body stop bleeding. One of these proteins is called von Willebrand factor.