For a patient with thrombocytopenia, which instruction should the nurse emphasize to minimize bleeding risk?

• A. Dab his or her nose instead of blowing
• B. Be careful when shaving with a safety razor
• C. Continue with physical activities to stimulate thrombopoiesis
• D. Avoid aspirin because it may mask fever

Answer: (A)

In thrombocytopenia, the reduced platelet count impairs clot formation, so even small injuries can lead to noticeable bleeding, especially from delicate mucous membranes like the nasal lining. Therefore, instructing the patient to dab the nose gently rather than blowing is the most effective way to minimize bleeding risk. Blowing forces air through the nasal passages and can shear fragile nasal vessels, triggering epistaxis in a person with low platelets; dabbing minimizes trauma while still allowing drainage or moisture management. If a nosebleed occurs, applying direct pressure to the soft part of the nose and keeping the head neutral or slightly forward can help; humidifying the air can also reduce mucosal dryness that predisposes to bleeding. Avoiding aspirin or other NSAIDs is important for lowering bleeding risk because they inhibit platelet function, but the reason given in that option is about fever masking, not the direct impact on bleeding. The other actions—continuing physical activities to boost thrombopoiesis or choosing shaving methods—do not address the most immediate risk, which is mucosal trauma and easy bleeding from a low platelet count.