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 D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "You can lift objects that weigh 15 pounds.": Clients recovering from retinal detachment repair should avoid lifting heavy objects, even as light as 15 pounds. Increased intraocular pressure from straining can compromise the surgical repair.
B. "Pick up items by bending at the waist.": Bending at the waist increases intraocular pressure and should be avoided postoperatively. Clients are advised to bend at the knees and keep their head upright to reduce pressure on the eye.
C. "Avoid reading for 3 days following surgery.": Reading is usually restricted only if it causes eye strain or requires eye movement that could interfere with healing. It is not routinely restricted for a set number of days unless otherwise specified by the surgeon.
D. "Take a stool softener daily.": Straining during bowel movements increases intra-abdominal and intraocular pressure. Stool softeners help prevent straining, making them a useful part of postoperative care after eye surgery to protect the surgical site.
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.
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