A nurse in a clinic is caring for an adolescent client who is at 24 weeks of gestation and showing signs of preeclampsia. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Increased platelet count
Increased protein in urine
Decreased BUN
Decreased serum uric acid
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. Increased platelet count: Preeclampsia is often associated with thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), not an increase. A falling platelet count can be a warning sign of worsening disease or progression to HELLP syndrome.
B. Increased protein in urine: Proteinuria is one of the hallmark signs of preeclampsia, resulting from glomerular damage in the kidneys. A 24-hour urine protein test or dipstick is commonly used to detect elevated protein levels during pregnancy.
C. Decreased BUN: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) may increase if renal perfusion is compromised, but a decrease is not typical in preeclampsia. Kidney involvement often leads to elevated BUN and creatinine levels.
D. Decreased serum uric acid: Preeclampsia usually causes elevated serum uric acid levels due to decreased renal clearance. A drop in uric acid would be inconsistent with this diagnosis
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "I should take this medication on an empty stomach.": Amitriptyline does not require administration on an empty stomach. It can be taken with or without food, although taking it with food may help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.
B. "I can continue to take St. John's wort while taking this medication.": St. John's wort can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome and reduce the effectiveness of amitriptyline due to drug interactions. Clients should avoid combining herbal supplements with antidepressants.
C. "I know it will be a couple of weeks before the medication helps me feel better.": Tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline take 2 to 4 weeks to show noticeable improvement in mood. Recognizing the delayed onset helps set realistic expectations and supports adherence.
D. "I expect this medication to raise my blood pressure.": Amitriptyline more commonly causes orthostatic hypotension, especially when therapy is initiated. Clients should be taught to change positions slowly to reduce the risk of dizziness and falls.
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Provide a quiet environment for the client: Minimizing noise and stimulation helps reduce stress and prevents spikes in intracranial pressure (ICP). A calm environment is essential for neurologically compromised clients.
B. Encourage the client to cough and deep breathe: Coughing can increase thoracic pressure and, consequently, ICP. In clients with elevated ICP, activities that increase intrathoracic or intra-abdominal pressure should be avoided to prevent worsening brain injury.
C. Obtain client vital signs every 8 hr: Clients with increased ICP require frequent monitoring, often hourly or every 2–4 hours, to detect changes in neurologic status or signs of Cushing's triad. Every 8 hours is insufficient for early intervention.
D. Maintain the head of the bed at a 30 degree angle: Elevating the head promotes venous outflow from the brain without compromising perfusion. A 30-degree elevation is a commonly recommended position to help control ICP levels.
E. Administer stool softeners to the client: Straining during bowel movements increases intra-abdominal pressure and can elevate ICP. Stool softeners reduce this risk and are a supportive intervention in the management of increased ICP.
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