Nursing Process NCLEX Questions Related

Review Nursing Process NCLEX Questions related questions and content

Which of the following lab value profiles should the nurse know to be consistent with hemolytic anemia?

  • A. Increased RBC, decreased bilirubin, decreased Hgb and Hct, increased reticulocytes
  • B. Decreased RBC, increased bilirubin, decreased Hgb and Hct, increased reticulocytes
  • C. Decreased RBC, decreased bilirubin, increased Hgb and Hct, decreased reticulocytes
  • D. Increased RBC, increased bilirubin, increased Hgb and Hct, decreased reticulocytes
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for the correct answer (A):
1. Increased RBC: Hemolytic anemia leads to increased RBC production as the body compensates for the destruction of red blood cells.
2. Decreased bilirubin: Bilirubin levels decrease due to the accelerated breakdown of red blood cells.
3. Decreased Hgb and Hct: Hemolysis causes a decrease in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels as red blood cells are destroyed.
4. Increased reticulocytes: Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells released by the bone marrow in response to increased RBC destruction.

Summary:
- Choice B is incorrect as hemolytic anemia would lead to increased, not decreased, bilirubin levels.
- Choice C is incorrect as hemolytic anemia would lead to decreased, not increased, Hgb and Hct levels.
- Choice D is incorrect as hemolytic anemia would not lead to increased levels of all parameters