A school-age child comes to the clinic for evaluation of excessive bruising. The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner notes a history of a respiratory infection 2 weeks prior. The physical exam is negative for hepatosplenomegaly and lymphadenopathy. Blood work reveals a platelet count of 60,000/mm³ with normal PT and aPTT. How will the nurse practitioner manage this child's condition?

Choice A reason: Hospital admission for IVIG is typically reserved for severe thrombocytopenia (<20,000/mm&sup3;), active bleeding, or failure of outpatient therapy. This child’s platelet count is low but not critically so, and there are no signs of bleeding. Choice B reason: Referral to a hematologist may be considered if the condition does not improve or if atypical features develop. However, initial management can be done in primary care for suspected immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Choice C reason: A short course of corticosteroids is a standard first-line treatment for ITP in children with moderate thrombocytopenia and no bleeding. It helps suppress the immune-mediated destruction of platelets. Choice D reason: While avoiding NSAIDs and contact sports is part of supportive care, it is not a definitive treatment. It should be advised alongside active therapy, not as a standalone intervention.