The home health nurse caring for a patient with polycythemia vera should focus on which aspect of care?

• A. Maintenance of high fluid intake
• B. Daily exercise to reduce weight
• C. Daily dose of anticoagulants
• D. Adequate intake of vitamin C

Answer: (A)

In polycythemia vera, there’s an overproduction of red blood cells that makes the blood thick and viscous. Keeping the patient well hydrated helps maintain plasma volume and lowers blood viscosity, which reduces the risk of thrombosis—making ensuring adequate fluid intake a key home care focus.

Exercise and weight management are beneficial for overall health, but they don’t directly address the hyperviscosity risk in PV. Daily anticoagulants aren’t routinely used in stable PV and can raise bleeding risk unless specifically indicated. Vitamin C intake doesn’t play a role in managing PV.