The nurse is caring for a patient with leukemia who is experiencing neutropenia as a result of chemotherapy. Which action should the nurse include in the plan of care for this patient?

Choice A reason: Neutropenia, a low neutrophil count from chemotherapy, increases infection risk in leukemia patients. Restricting visitors with communicable illnesses minimizes exposure to pathogens, as neutrophils are critical for fighting infections. This action protects the immunocompromised patient, reducing the likelihood of hospital-acquired infections like pneumonia or sepsis. Choice B reason: Replacing hand hygiene with gloves is inappropriate, as hand hygiene is essential to prevent infection transmission in neutropenic patients. Gloves complement, not replace, hand washing, which removes pathogens effectively. This choice fails to address the heightened infection risk in leukemia patients undergoing chemotherapy. Choice C reason: Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter increases infection risk, particularly urinary tract infections, in neutropenic patients, who lack sufficient neutrophils to combat bacteria. Catheters breach natural barriers, making this action harmful rather than protective for a leukemia patient with compromised immunity post-chemotherapy. Choice D reason: Restricting fluid intake is not indicated for neutropenic patients, as adequate hydration supports immune function and overall health. Dehydration can exacerbate complications in leukemia patients undergoing chemotherapy. This action does not address infection prevention, the primary concern in neutropenia management.