A client with a long history of cirrhosis has anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. In the context of cirrhosis, these three conditions are most likely caused by:
Hypersplenism.
Peptic ulcer disease.
Cholecystitis.
Esophageal varices.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Hypersplenism is a condition often associated with cirrhosis, where the spleen becomes overactive. This leads to the destruction of blood cells, causing anemia (low red blood cells), leukopenia (low white blood cells), and thrombocytopenia (low platelets)1.
Choice B rationale
Peptic ulcer disease primarily affects the stomach and duodenum, leading to ulcers and bleeding. It does not typically cause anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia in the context of cirrhosis.
Choice C rationale
Cholecystitis is the inflammation of the gallbladder, usually due to gallstones. It does not cause the blood cell abnormalities seen in cirrhosis.
Choice D rationale
Esophageal varices are swollen veins in the esophagus that develop due to portal hypertension in cirrhosis. While they can cause bleeding, they do not directly cause anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Hypokalemia can cause muscle weakness and cramps, but it does not typically lead to severe muscle spasms causing exhaustion. The patient’s symptoms of lethargy and weakness are more likely related to electrolyte imbalances and dehydration rather than muscle spasms.
Choice B rationale
While low potassium levels can affect cellular metabolism, the primary issue here is not glycolysis. The patient’s symptoms are more consistent with dehydration and electrolyte imbalances rather than a metabolic shift to glycolysis.
Choice C rationale
Hypokalemia can cause cells to become hyperpolarized, leading to muscle weakness and decreased reflexes. However, the patient’s symptoms of lethargy and weakness are more likely due to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances rather than cellular hyperpolarization.
Choice D rationale
Hypernatremia, or high sodium levels, can cause cellular dehydration, leading to symptoms such as lethargy and weakness. The patient’s lab results and clinical presentation are consistent with hypernatremia-induced cellular dehydration, which explains his symptoms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering antipyretic medication as prescribed is a priority intervention for a client with a body temperature of 38°C (100.4°F). Antipyretics help reduce fever and provide comfort to the patient. They work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are involved in the fever response.
Choice B rationale
Encouraging fluid intake to prevent dehydration is also important, but it is not the priority intervention. Adequate hydration helps maintain fluid balance and supports the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
Choice C rationale
Monitoring vital signs every 4 hours is essential for assessing the patient’s condition, but it is not an intervention that directly addresses the fever. It helps track the patient’s response to treatment and detect any changes in their condition.
Choice D rationale
Applying a cooling blanket to reduce fever can be effective, but it is typically used when antipyretic medications are not sufficient or contraindicated. Cooling measures help lower body temperature through conduction and evaporation.
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