A client reports experiencing numbness and ngling in the extremies. Which of the client's serum laboratory values should the praccal nurse (PN) priorize reporng to the healthcare provider?
Hematocrit
Albumin and protein levels
Electrolytes
White blood cell count (WBC)
The Correct Answer is C
When a client reports experiencing numbness and ngling in the extremies, it is crucial for the praccal nurse (PN) to prioritise reporting the client's electrolyte levels to the healthcare provider. Electrolytes are essential minerals that help maintain the balance of fluids in the body and enable proper nerve and muscle function. Imbalances in electrolyte levels can lead to neurological symptoms, including numbness and ngling.
Opons a, b, and d are not the correct priories to report in this situation:
a) Hematocrit: Hematocrit measures the proportion of red blood cells in the blood. While abnormalies in hematocrit can indicate certain conditions, such as anaemia, it is not directly associated with numbness and ngling in the extremes.
b) Albumin and protein levels: Albumin and protein levels are important for assessing nutritional status and liver function. While low levels of protein can contribute to various health issues, they are not the primary concern when a client experiences numbness and ngling in the extremities.
d) White blood cell count (WBC): WBC count is used to evaluate the immune system's response to infection or inflammation. While infections or inflammatory conditions can cause neurological symptoms, such as ngling, it is not the primary concern in this specific case of numbness and ngling.
Therefore, the most appropriate laboratory value to prioritise reporting in this scenario is the client's electrolyte levels, as imbalances can directly contribute to the reported symptoms and may require prompt intervention.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Completing a survey of the various ethnicities represented in the nurse's community is a good way to learn about the diversity of the population, but it is not the first step in developing cultural competencE. The nurse should first examine their own cultural background and biases before learning about others.
Choice B reason: Studying the beliefs and traditions of persons living in other cultures is a valuable way to gain knowledge and understanding of different worldviews, but it is not the first step in developing cultural competencE. The nurse should first be aware of their own cultural values and assumptions before exploring those of others.
Choice C reason: Considering how the nurse's own personal beliefs and decisions are reflective of their culture is the first step in developing cultural competencE. The nurse should recognize that their culture influences their perception, communication, and behavior, and that they may have prejudices or stereotypes that affect their interactions with clients from different cultures.
Choice D reason: Inviting a family from another culture to join the nurse for an event is a nice gesture to show respect and interest in other cultures, but it is not the first step in developing cultural competencE. The nurse should first develop self-awareness and sensitivity to their own cultural identity before engaging with others.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Decreasing bright lights is not the first action that the nurse should perform because it does not address the priority problem of potential infection and inflammation of the meninges, which can cause serious complications such as brain damage or deatH. Decreasing bright lights can help reduce photophobia and headache, but it is not an urgent intervention.
Choice B reason: Initiating IV access is not the first action that the nurse should perform because it does not address the priority problem of potential infection and inflammation of the meninges, which can cause serious complications such as brain damage or deatH. Initiating IV access can facilitate fluid and medication administration, but it is not an immediate intervention.
Choice C reason: Administering antibiotics is not the first action that the nurse should perform because it requires a physician's order and confirmation of the diagnosis and causative organism by laboratory tests such as blood culture or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis. Administering antibiotics can treat bacterial meningitis, but it is not a priority intervention.
Choice D reason: Implementing droplet precautions is the first action that the nurse should perform because it addresses the priority problem of potential infection and inflammation of the meninges, which can cause serious complications such as brain damage or deatH. Implementing droplet precautions can prevent transmission of meningitis to other clients or staff, as meningitis can be spread by respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talkinG.
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