Platelets: In a Nutshell (Nursing)

00:01 So let's wrap this video up.

00:03 A platelet count that is abnormal is often a sign of an underlying medical condition or a side effect from a medication.

00:10 Point is, you're going to have to do some more investigating with the healthcare team to find out what's causing this abnormal platelet count.

00:18 Thrombocytopenia is a platelet count that's lower than normal, or thrombocytosis is a platelet count that's higher than normal.

00:26 Platelets work with the coagulation cascade to form a platelet plug.

00:30 And we're really glad that they do, otherwise, we would just ooze all over the place.

00:36 Primary thrombocytosis can cause very serious bleeding or clotting complications, but remember, it's less common than secondary thrombocytosis.

00:46 And thrombocytopenia will prevent the patient from clotting normally, and will increase the risk for bleeding.

00:52 So handle them with extra care and educate them very clearly.

00:57 Thank you for watching our video today.