A client who was recently diagnosed with atrial fibrillation is receiving warfarin. To see the drug's effectiveness, which laboratory finding should the practical nurse (PN) review?
Complete blood count.
Serum troponin levels.
Creatinine clearance.
Prothrombin time (PT)
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A: A complete blood count (CBC) is important for monitoring various aspects of the blood, including the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. While important for assessing overall health, a CBC is not the primary laboratory finding used to assess the effectiveness of warfarin in managing atrial fibrillation.
Choice B: Serum troponin levels are typically measured to assess cardiac muscle damage, such as in myocardial infarction (heart attack). They are not the primary indicator for assessing the effectiveness of warfarin in atrial fibrillation.
Choice C: Creatinine clearance is a measure of kidney function and is not the primary laboratory finding used to evaluate the effectiveness of warfarin.
Choice D: Prothrombin time (PT) is the most relevant laboratory finding for monitoring the effectiveness of warfarin in clients with atrial fibrillation. Warfarin's therapeutic effect is primarily assessed through PT measurements, with the goal of maintaining the client's international normalized ratio (INR) within a specific target range to prevent excessive bleeding or clotting.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: A platelet count of 135,000/mm3 is slightly below the lower end of the normal range, but it may not be considered critically low. It is not the highest priority finding among the choices provided.
Choice B: A blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 75 mg/dL is significantly elevated and outside the normal range. Elevated BUN can indicate kidney dysfunction or dehydration and should be reported promptly.
Choice C: Decreased deep tendon reflexes may be related to various factors, including medication effects, and may not be considered the highest priority finding unless it is associated with other concerning symptoms.
Choice D: Periodic nausea and vomiting can be common side effects of chemotherapy, but they may not be considered the highest priority finding unless they are severe, persistent, or associated with signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Keeping a record of food and drinks consumed daily, often referred to as food journaling or keeping a food diary, is a recommended initial approach to a weight loss plan. It helps clients become aware of their eating habits and can assist in identifying areas where dietary changes may be needed.
Choice B: Participating in a group exercise class 3 times a week is a beneficial component of a weight loss plan, but it is not specifically related to the initial approach to weight loss.
Choice C: Engaging in strenuous activity for an hour daily can be part of a weight loss plan, but it may not be the initial approach for everyone, especially if the client is not currently physically active. The initial approach often involves dietary changes and gradually increasing physical activity.
Choice D: Planning low carbohydrate and high protein meals can be a dietary strategy for weight loss, but it may not be the initial approach for all clients. Dietary recommendations should be individualized based on the client's preferences and needs.
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