Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Nursing Management: Preoperative Care Related

Review Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Nursing Management: Preoperative Care related questions and content

The nurse is analyzing a patient's preoperative blood studies. Which of the following blood studies should the nurse review to assess for anemia and infection in a patient with no known health problems?

  • A. Red blood cell count
  • B. White blood cell count
  • C. Serum potassium
  • D. Hematocrit
  • E. Prothrombin (INR) time
Correct Answer: A,B,D

Rationale: Preoperative blood studies for assessing anemia, immune status, and infection include RBC, Hgb, Hct, platelets, WBC, and WBC differential. Prothrombin (INR) time would be used to assess bleeding tendencies. Serum potassium would not be assessed as part of anemia or infection but would be assessed in a patient who is taking a diuretic.