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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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Nurse Angelo is attending for a child with Cushing's syndrome; which of the following nursing interventions would be most necessary?
- A. Observing the child for signs and symptoms of metabolic acidosis
- B. Handling the child carefully to prevent bruising
- C. Monitoring vital signs for hypertensionand tachycardia
- D. Monitoring the child for signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In a child with Cushing's syndrome, excessive levels of cortisol are present in the body. Cortisol can lead to hypertension (high blood pressure) and tachycardia (elevated heart rate). Therefore, closely monitoring vital signs for signs of hypertension and tachycardia is essential for early detection and management of these potential complications. Prompt identification and treatment of these cardiovascular issues can help prevent further complications and ensure the child's well-being.
The nurse is using calipers to measure skinfold thickness over the triceps muscle in a school- age child. What is the purpose of doing this?
- A. To measure body fat
- B. To measure muscle mass
- C. To determine arm circumference
- D. To determine accuracy of weight measurement
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Skinfold thickness measurements using calipers are commonly used in assessing body composition, specifically to estimate body fat percentage. By measuring skinfold thickness over the triceps muscle in combination with measurements from other sites on the body, healthcare professionals can estimate the amount of subcutaneous fat present. This information is valuable in evaluating an individual's overall body composition and health status. The triceps skinfold measurement is a commonly included site in body fat calculations, especially in school-age children, where it can provide insights into growth and development.
The Foley Family is caring for their youngest child, Justin, who is suffering from tetralogy of Fallot. Which of the following are defects associated with this congenital heart condition?
- A. Aorta exits from the right ventricle, pulmonary artery exits from the left ventricle, and two noncommunicating circulations
- B. Ventricular septal defect, overriding aorta, pulmonic stenosis (PS), and right ventricular hypertrophy
- C. Coarctation of aorta, aortic valve stenosis, mitral valve stenosis, and patent ductus arteriosus
- D. Tricuspid valve atresia, atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect, and hypoplastic right ventricle
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart condition characterized by four specific defects:
The nurse understands that which of the ff. best describes the action of propanolol (Inderal)?
- A. It increases heart rate
- B. It decreases fluid volume
- C. It decreases cardiac output
- D. It increases cardiac contractility
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Propranolol (Inderal) is a non-selective beta-blocker that works by blocking beta receptors in the heart and blood vessels. By blocking these receptors, propranolol decreases the effects of adrenaline, leading to a decrease in heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac output. This results in a reduction in the workload of the heart, making it an effective medication for conditions such as hypertension, angina, and certain types of arrhythmias. Overall, the action of propranolol leads to a decrease in cardiac output, contrary to the options that suggest an increase in heart rate, fluid volume, or cardiac contractility.
The nurse understands that labyrinthitis is treated primarily with which of the ff. drug categories?
- A. Antihistamines
- B. Anti-inflammatories
- C. Antispasmotics
- D. Antiemetics
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Labyrinthitis is an inner ear disorder that is often caused by a viral infection. Antihistamines are commonly used in the treatment of labyrinthitis to help reduce symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Antihistamines work by blocking the effects of histamine, which is a chemical in the body that can cause these symptoms. Additionally, antihistamines can help alleviate any associated allergies or inflammation in the inner ear that may be contributing to the condition. Other treatment options for labyrinthitis may include vestibular rehabilitation exercises, antiemetics for nausea and vomiting, and medications to manage dizziness.