Unveiling Polycythemia Vera: What Nurses Should Look Out For

🩸Polycythemia Vera leads to an increase in red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

🌡️The elevated viscosity of the blood in Polycythemia Vera increases the risk of blood clots.

🔥Erythromelalgia, a burning pain in the hands and feet, can be a manifestation of Polycythemia Vera.

💡Enlargement of the liver and spleen, known as hepatosplenomegaly, is a common finding in Polycythemia Vera.

🌡️Polycythemia Vera can cause hypertension due to increased blood viscosity and occlusion of hepatic veins.

What are the key features of Polycythemia Vera?

—Polycythemia Vera is marked by an increase in red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, leading to a higher risk of blood clots.

What is erythromelalgia?

—Erythromelalgia is a condition commonly associated with Polycythemia Vera, characterized by a burning pain in the hands and feet.

How does Polycythemia Vera affect the liver and spleen?

—Polycythemia Vera can cause enlargement of the liver and spleen, known as hepatosplenomegaly.

What are the potential complications of Polycythemia Vera?

—Polycythemia Vera can lead to hypertension, increased risk of blood clots, and various symptoms related to abnormal blood viscosity.

How should nurses assess and manage patients with Polycythemia Vera?

—Nurses should monitor patients for symptoms such as erythromelalgia, hepatosplenomegaly, and hypertension. Regular blood tests and appropriate management of complications are essential.

00:00Polycythemia Vera is a condition characterized by an increase in red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

02:06Erythromelalgia, a burning pain in the hands and feet, can be a manifestation of Polycythemia Vera.

04:00Enlargement of the liver and spleen, known as hepatosplenomegaly, is a common finding in Polycythemia Vera.

06:40Polycythemia Vera can cause hypertension due to increased blood viscosity and occlusion of hepatic veins.