A client is post-op nephrectomy for renal cancer. Which lab results would cause most concern for the nurse?

Table 34.1 Review of Normal Ranges for Complete Blood Cell Counts (Adult)

Blood Cell

Normal Ranges

Red blood cells (mature, circulating)

Male 4.51-6.01 million/mm3

Female: 4.01-5.51 million/mm3

Hemoglobin

Adult (15-64 yr)

Male 14-17.3 g/dL

Female 11.7-15.5 g/dL

Hematocrit

42% -52% in males

36% -48% in females

Reticulocytes

0.5% -2.5% of total RBC count

White blood cells (total)

4.5-11.1 103/mm3

Neutrophils

59%

Bands 3%

Segs-56%

Eosinophils

2.7%

Basophils

0.5%

Lymphocytes

34%

Monocytes

4%

Platelets

150,000-450,000/mm3

Hemoglobin of 14 g/dL

Platelet count 150,000 mm3

White blood cell count 17,000 mm3

Neutrophils 59%

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A.   This value is within the normal range for adult males (14-17.3 g/dL) and borderline for females (11.7- 15.5 g/dL). While the specific context of the patient (e.g., gender) matters, generally, a hemoglobin level of 14 g/dL would not typically cause concern.

B.   A platelet count of 150,000/mm³ is at the lower limit of normal (150,000-450,000/mm³). While this may be concerning in certain clinical contexts, it is still within the acceptable range and would not typically raise alarm for a post-op nephrectomy patient unless there are other indications of bleeding or clotting issues.
C.   This white blood cell count is elevated (normal range is 4.5-11.1 x 10³/mm³). An elevated WBC count can indicate an infection, inflammation, or a response to surgery, which is particularly concerning post- operatively. This result would warrant further investigation to rule out infection, which is critical for recovery.
D.   The neutrophil percentage of 59% is within the normal range (typically around 40-70% for total WBCs). While it is slightly elevated, it is not concerning on its own without additional context, especially since it may be elevated in response to surgery or stress.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. After a radical cystectomy, the client may have a urinary diversion (such as a stoma) and should be vigilant about monitoring urine output. Absence of urine output can indicate a serious issue, and notifying the provider is crucial.
B. This statement indicates a need for further clarification. After a radical cystectomy, clients typically do not resume normal voiding because the bladder is removed. Instead, they may have a urinary diversion or need to learn how to manage their new urinary output. Normal voiding as before surgery is not possible, so this statement reflects a misunderstanding of the procedure's implications.
C. After surgery, particularly abdominal surgery like a radical cystectomy, patients are often advised to take stool softeners to prevent constipation. Straining can increase the risk of complications and affect the surgical site, so this is a valid precaution.
D. Monitoring the surgical site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, is an essential part of post-operative care. Clients should be educated on how to check their surgical site for any concerning changes.

A. Avoiding arm exercise in the immediate post-op period B. Instruct the client to sleep in the left lateral side lying position C. Placing cool compresses on the affected arm D. Elevating the affected arm on a pillow above the level of the heart

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. This statement is not advisable. While it is essential to avoid strenuous activity initially, gentle arm exercises and range-of-motion activities are generally encouraged as soon as possible to promote circulation and help prevent lymphedema. Immobilization can actually increase the risk of lymphedema.
B. This intervention is not recommended for preventing lymphedema. Sleeping on the side of the surgery (in this case, the left side) can put pressure on the affected arm and may not promote proper lymphatic drainage. Clients are often advised to sleep on their back or to position themselves in a way that does not compress the affected arm.
C. This intervention can provide temporary relief if there is swelling or discomfort, but it does not effectively prevent lymphedema. While cool compresses might help reduce inflammation, they are not a primary measure for lymphedema prevention.
D. This is the most effective intervention for preventing lymphedema. Elevating the affected arm helps facilitate lymphatic drainage and reduces the risk of fluid accumulation. Keeping the arm elevated above heart level encourages proper circulation and helps manage swelling.

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Blood Cell	Normal Ranges
Red blood cells (mature, circulating)	Male 4.51-6.01 million/mm3 Female: 4.01-5.51 million/mm3
Hemoglobin	Adult (15-64 yr) Male 14-17.3 g/dL Female 11.7-15.5 g/dL
Hematocrit	42% -52% in males 36% -48% in females
Reticulocytes	0.5% -2.5% of total RBC count
White blood cells (total)	4.5-11.1 103/mm3
Neutrophils	59% Bands 3% Segs-56%
Eosinophils	2.7%
Basophils	0.5%
Lymphocytes	34%
Monocytes	4%
Platelets	150,000-450,000/mm3

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Explanation

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