ATI Hematologic System Related

Review ATI Hematologic System related questions and content

A nurse is caring for four clients. After reviewing today's laboratory results, which client would the nurse assess first?

  • A. Client with an international normalized ratio of 2.8
  • B. Client with a platelet count of 128,000/mm3 (128 x 109/L).
  • C. Client with a prothrombin time (PT) of 28 seconds
  • D. Client with a red blood cell count of 5.1 million/mcl. (5.1 x 1012/L)
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because a prothrombin time (PT) of 28 seconds indicates potential issues with blood clotting and can be a sign of bleeding disorders or liver dysfunction, requiring immediate assessment and intervention to prevent complications.

Choice A (INR of 2.8) is within the therapeutic range for clients on anticoagulant therapy, so it's not an immediate concern. Choice B (platelet count of 128,000/mm3) is low but not critically low, so it doesn't require immediate assessment. Choice D (red blood cell count of 5.1 million/mcl) is within the normal range and doesn't indicate urgent issues.

In summary, the nurse should assess the client with a PT of 28 seconds first due to the potential risk of bleeding or clotting disorders, while the other choices are not as urgent.