A nurse is reviewing the laboratory findings for a client who developed fat embolism syndrome (FES) following a fracture. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse expect?
- A. Increased serum calcium level
- B. Decreased serum calcium level
- C. Increased white blood cell count
- D. Decreased platelet count
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Decreased serum calcium level. In fat embolism syndrome (FES), fat globules enter the bloodstream, leading to blockages in small blood vessels. This can cause a decrease in serum calcium due to the formation of fat emboli in the pulmonary circulation, leading to hypoxia and subsequent release of inflammatory mediators that can affect calcium levels. The other choices are incorrect because in FES, there is no direct effect on serum calcium levels. Increased serum calcium levels (choice A) are not expected in FES. While increased white blood cell count (choice C) and decreased platelet count (choice D) can occur in response to inflammation or infection associated with FES, they are not specific laboratory findings for FES.
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A nurse is caring for a client who the provider suspects might have pernicious anemia. The nurse should expect the provider to prescribe which of the following diagnostic tests?
- A. Schilling test
- B. Complete blood count (CBC)
- C. Vitamin B12 level
- D. Bone marrow biopsy
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Schilling test. Pernicious anemia is caused by vitamin B12 deficiency, often due to poor absorption. The Schilling test is specifically used to diagnose pernicious anemia by evaluating the body's ability to absorb vitamin B12. The test involves giving the patient a small amount of radioactive vitamin B12 to determine how well it is absorbed and utilized by the body. This test helps to differentiate pernicious anemia from other causes of B12 deficiency.
Choice B (Complete blood count) is a general test that may show abnormalities in red blood cells seen in anemia, but it does not specifically diagnose pernicious anemia. Choice C (Vitamin B12 level) alone may not differentiate between pernicious anemia and other causes of B12 deficiency. Choice D (Bone marrow biopsy) is not typically necessary for diagnosing pernicious anemia and is more invasive compared to the Schilling test.
A nurse is performing an ECG on a client who is experiencing chest pain. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
- A. I will need to apply electrodes to your chest and extremities.
- B. You may feel some discomfort during the procedure.
- C. The procedure will take about an hour.
- D. We need to monitor your heart rate continuously after the procedure.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Applying electrodes to the chest and extremities is necessary for a complete ECG recording. Electrodes are placed strategically to capture electrical activity of the heart. This statement informs the client about the procedure and ensures accurate results. Other options are incorrect because discomfort during the procedure is subjective and not guaranteed (B), an ECG typically takes only a few minutes, not an hour (C), and continuous heart rate monitoring is not required post-procedure unless indicated by the results (D).
A home health nurse assesses an older adult with vision loss due to glaucoma. What is a safety hazard?
- A. Bright overhead lighting
- B. Presence of scatter rugs in the kitchen
- C. Using contrasting colors in home decor
- D. Wearing slip-resistant shoes
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Presence of scatter rugs in the kitchen. Scatter rugs pose a tripping hazard for individuals with vision loss, especially in areas like the kitchen where spills and slippery surfaces are common. The other choices are incorrect because: A - Bright overhead lighting can actually be beneficial for those with vision loss by improving visibility; C - Using contrasting colors can aid in distinguishing objects and pathways; D - Wearing slip-resistant shoes can help prevent falls.
A nurse is providing teaching to a client who is postoperative following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery and is receiving opioid medications to manage discomfort. Aside from managing pain, which of the following desired effects of medications should the nurse identify as most important for the client's recovery?
- A. It facilitates the client's deep breathing
- B. It increases the client's appetite
- C. It promotes wound healing
- D. It decreases the client's anxiety
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: It facilitates the client's deep breathing. Postoperative clients following CABG surgery are at risk for developing atelectasis due to decreased lung expansion. Opioid medications can cause respiratory depression, leading to shallow breathing. By facilitating deep breathing, the nurse helps prevent atelectasis and promotes optimal oxygenation, aiding in the client's recovery. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are not directly related to the immediate physiological needs of a postoperative CABG client. Increasing appetite, promoting wound healing, and decreasing anxiety are important aspects of overall recovery but are not as critical as ensuring proper oxygenation and preventing respiratory complications in the immediate postoperative period.
A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has hypertension and a new prescription for hydrochlorothiazide. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide?
- A. Take the medication early in the day.
- B. Take the medication at bedtime.
- C. Take the medication with food.
- D. Take the medication only when blood pressure is high.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Take the medication early in the day. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that increases urine production, which can cause frequent urination. Taking it early helps prevent nighttime urination, promoting better sleep. Taking it with food may reduce gastrointestinal upset. Taking it only when blood pressure is high is incorrect, as it should be taken regularly to maintain consistent blood pressure control. Bedtime dosing may lead to nocturnal diuresis and disturb sleep. The other choices are irrelevant or incorrect in the context of hydrochlorothiazide administration.