A client with HELLP syndrome reports severe epigastric pain and nausea.
The nurse should suspect that the client is experiencing:
Hepatic rupture
Pancreatitis
Gastric ulcer
Cholecystitis
The Correct Answer is A
Hepatic rupture. The client with HELLP syndrome is experiencing severe epigastric pain and nausea due to liver damage caused by hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets. Hepatic rupture is a life-threatening complication of HELLP syndrome that can cause bleeding and shock.
Choice B. Pancreatitis is wrong because it is not a common complication of HELLP syndrome and it usually causes more diffuse abdominal pain rather than localized epigastric pain.
Choice C. Gastric ulcer is wrong because it is not associated with HELLP syndrome and it does not explain the other symptoms such as hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets.
Choice D. Cholecystitis is wrong because it is not related to HELLP syndrome and it usually causes right upper quadrant pain rather than epigastric pain.
Normal ranges for liver enzymes are AST < 40 IU/L and ALT < 56 IU/L. Normal range for platelet count is 150-400 x 10⁹/L.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A, B, C and D. Here is why:
• Choice A is correct becausemonitoring the client’s deep tendon reflexesis a way to assess the client’s neuromuscular status and the risk of magnesium toxicity.Magnesium sulfate can cause muscle weakness and decreased reflexes.
• Choice B is correct becausechecking the client’s urine output every houris a way to monitor the client’s renal function and fluid balance.Magnesium sulfate is excreted by the kidneys and can cause oliguria and fluid overload.
• Choice C is correct becauseadministering calcium gluconate as an antidote if neededis a way to treat magnesium toxicity.Calcium gluconate reverses the effects of magnesium sulfate on the neuromuscular and cardiovascular systems.
• Choice D is correct becausekeeping a bag of 0.9% sodium chloride solution at the bedsideis a way to prepare for possible complications of magnesium sulfate therapy such as hypotension, pulmonary edema, or cardiac arrest.Normal saline can help restore blood pressure and fluid balance.
• Choice E is wrong becauseflushing the IV line with heparin before and after infusionis not necessary or recommended for magnesium sulfate administration.Heparin is an anticoagulant that can increase the risk of bleeding and is not compatible with magnesium sulfate.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Hepatic rupture.The client with HELLP syndrome is experiencing severe epigastric pain and nausea due to liver damage caused by hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets.Hepatic rupture is a life-threatening complication of HELLP syndrome that can cause bleeding and shock.
Choice B.Pancreatitis is wrong because it is not a common complication of HELLP syndrome and it usually causes more diffuse abdominal pain rather than localized epigastric pain.
Choice C.Gastric ulcer is wrong because it is not associated with HELLP syndrome and it does not explain the other symptoms such as hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets.
Choice D.Cholecystitis is wrong because it is not related to HELLP syndrome and it usually causes right upper quadrant pain rather than epigastric pain.
Normal ranges for liver enzymes are AST < 40 IU/L and ALT < 56 IU/L.Normal range for platelet count is 150-400 x 10⁹/L.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.