The nurse working the organ transplant unit is caring for a client with a decreased white blood cell count. During evening visitation, a visitor brings a basket of fruit. What action should the nurse take?
A. Allow the client to keep the fruit
B. Place the fruit next to the bed for easy access by the client
C. Offer to wash the fruit for the client
D. Tell the family members to take the fruit home
Correct Answer: D. Tell the family members to take the fruit home
The client with neutropenia should not have fresh fruit because it should be peeled and/or cooked before eating. He should also not eat foods grown on or in the ground or eat from the salad bar. The nurse should remove potted or cut flowers from the room as well. Any source of bacteria should be eliminated, if possible.
Option A: Educate clients and SO about appropriate methods for cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing items. Knowledge of ways to reduce or eliminate germs reduces the likelihood of transmission.
Option B: Perform measures to break the chain of infection and prevent infection. Assist clients in carrying out appropriate skin and oral hygiene. Instruct clients to perform hand hygiene when handling food or eating.
Option C: Place the patient in protective isolation if the patient is at high risk of infection. Protective isolation is set when the WBC indicates neutropenia. Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) properly.