How it Works
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (Free-Trial)

A nurse in a pediatric clinic is reviewing the laboratory results of a school-age child. Which of the following findings indicates the child may have a potential bacterial infection?

A.

Increased hemoglobin

B.

Increased absolute neutrophils

C.

Decreased C-reactive protein

D.

Decreased platelets

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Rationale:

A. Increased hemoglobin: Elevated hemoglobin levels are generally associated with dehydration, high altitude, or chronic hypoxia, but they are not specific indicators of infection. Hemoglobin does not provide direct evidence of a bacterial process.

B. Increased absolute neutrophils: Neutrophils are the primary white blood cells involved in fighting bacterial infections. An elevated absolute neutrophil count suggests an acute bacterial infection or an inflammatory response caused by bacterial pathogens.

C. Decreased C-reactive protein: CRP is a marker of inflammation, often elevated during bacterial infections. A decreased CRP level makes bacterial infection less likely and is not consistent with the inflammatory response usually seen in such cases.

D. Decreased platelets: Low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) can result from viral infections, autoimmune diseases, or bone marrow disorders. While they may be altered in sepsis, they are not a reliable or primary marker of a typical bacterial infection.


Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Free Nursing Study Resources

Related Questions

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Rationale:

A. "Client in room 303 is requesting snacks between meals.": While client preferences are important, this information is non-urgent and can be communicated through care plans or written notes. It does not directly impact immediate nursing care during a shift change.

B. "Client in room 304 has a laptop that they use for relaxation.": This is personal, non-clinical information and is not essential for safe and effective handoff communication. Shift reports should focus on medical status, treatment plans, or immediate needs.

C. "Client in room 302 has multiple visitors.": Visitor status is not a priority item in a shift report unless it directly affects client care, safety, or monitoring. Including such information can distract from more clinically significant updates.

D. "Client in room 301 is in the cardiac catheterization lab.": This is critical information because it reflects a current procedure, potential risks, and possible post-procedure care needs. Reporting this ensures continuity of monitoring and prioritization.

Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"B"},"B":{"answers":"A,B,C"},"C":{"answers":"A,B"},"D":{"answers":"A,B,C"}}

Explanation

Rationale:

  • Sensation: Tingling indicates possible nerve irritation or mild neurovascular compromise. This is often seen in fractures when swelling or bone displacement compresses nerves near the injury site, especially in long bones like the radius.
  • Ecchymosis: Bruising results from soft tissue bleeding and is common in all three conditions due to trauma to blood vessels. Ligament tears (sprain), bone injury (fracture), and capsule damage (dislocation) can all lead to ecchymosis.
  • Pain level: Moderate pain, such as a 4/10 rating, is consistent with both sprains and fractures. Sprains stretch or tear ligaments, while fractures disrupt bone structure. Dislocations usually present with severe, sharp pain that impairs joint movement entirely.
  • Edema: Swelling is a nonspecific but common response to tissue injury. It occurs with ligament strain (sprain), bone disruption (fracture), and joint trauma (dislocation), all of which lead to localized inflammation and fluid accumulation.

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

Register