A client is admitted to the ICU, which laboratory result must be reported immediately to the physician?
- A. Hematocrit 48%
- B. paCO2 38 mm Hg
- C. platelets 18,000
- D. WBC count 8000
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A platelet count of 18,000 is significantly low, indicating a condition known as thrombocytopenia, which can lead to a risk of bleeding. In a critical care setting like the ICU, low platelet counts need to be addressed urgently to prevent serious complications such as hemorrhage. This result must be reported immediately to the physician so that appropriate interventions, such as transfusion of platelets, can be initiated promptly to manage the patient's condition effectively. Hematocrit, paCO2, and WBC count may also be important parameters to monitor in an ICU patient, but the critically low platelet count poses the most immediate threat to the patient's well-being and requires urgent attention.
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During an ophthalmic assessment, which of the ff are the nurses expected to observe carefully? Choose all that apply
- A. Level of central vision
- B. Pupil responses
- C. External eye appearance
- D. Eye movements
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: During an ophthalmic assessment, the nurses are expected to observe the following carefully:
Which food should be avoided by the patient on a low-sodium diet?
- A. Apples
- B. Chicken
- C. Cheese
- D. Broccoli
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Cheese is high in sodium and should be avoided by patients on a low-sodium diet. It is a common source of hidden sodium in many diets. Other high-sodium foods that should be limited or avoided include processed meats, canned soups, processed snacks, and condiments. Patients should focus on eating fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins like chicken (with no added salt), and whole grains to maintain a low-sodium diet.
Kimberly, age 3 years, is being admitted for about 1 week of hospitalization. Her parents tell the nurse that they are going to buy her "a lot of new toys, because she will be in the hospital." The nurse's reply should be based on an understanding of which concept?
- A. New toys make hospitalization easier.
- B. New toys are usually better than older ones for children of this age.
- C. At this age, children often need the comfort and reassurance of familiar toys from home.
- D. Buying new toys for a hospitalized child is a maladaptive way to cope with parental guilt.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct response is based on the understanding that at the age of 3, children often find comfort and reassurance in familiar toys from home. This familiarity can help them cope with the stress and unfamiliar environment of being hospitalized. Introducing new toys may not provide the same level of comfort and may even add to the child's sense of disorientation during their stay in the hospital. It is essential to prioritize the child's emotional well-being and provide them with familiar items that can offer a sense of security during their hospitalization.
Blood and fluid loss from frequent diarrhea may cause hypovolemia and you can quickly assess volume depletion in Miss CC by:
- A. Measuring the quantity and specific gravity of her urine output
- B. Taking her blood pressure
- C. Comparing the patient's present weight with her last weight
- D. Administering the oral water test
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Comparing the patient's present weight with her last weight is the best way to quickly assess volume depletion in Miss CC. As she has been experiencing frequent diarrhea leading to blood and fluid loss, changes in weight are a reliable indicator of changes in the body's fluid status. A significant decrease in weight would suggest a loss of fluid and potential hypovolemia due to the diarrhea. This method is simple, immediate, and directly reflects the impact of the fluid loss on the body's volume status. Measuring the quantity and specific gravity of her urine output could provide information on her kidney function but may not be as quick and direct in evaluating volume depletion as comparing her current weight with her last recorded weight. Taking her blood pressure is important in assessing overall cardiovascular status but may not be as immediate in reflecting the impact of fluid loss on volume status. Administering the oral water test is not a standard method for quickly assessing volume depletion in this scenario.
The nurse recognizes that the major early problem for Mr. Gabatan will be:
- A. Bladder control
- B. Quadriceps setting
- C. Client education
- D. Use of aids for ambulation
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The major early problem for Mr. Gabatan will likely be quadriceps setting. Quadriceps setting exercises are important for preventing muscle weakness and atrophy, especially after surgery or prolonged immobility. Strengthening the quadriceps muscles is essential for maintaining proper knee function, stability, and overall mobility. It is a crucial aspect of early rehabilitation and recovery for patients, particularly after orthopedic procedures such as joint replacements or fractures. Maintaining and improving quadriceps strength will also play a significant role in promoting Mr. Gabatan's independence and mobility during his recovery process.