A nurse is admitting a client who has systemic lupus erythematous (SLE). The client reports fatigue, joint tenderness, swelling, and difficulty urinating. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse anticipate? (Select all that apply.)
Positive ANA titer
Elevated BUN
Increased hemoglobin
2+ urine protein
Decreased serum C3 and C4
Correct Answer : A,B,D,E
A. Positive ANA titer: A positive antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is a hallmark finding in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It indicates the presence of autoantibodies that attack the body's own tissues and is commonly seen in SLE patients.
B. Elevated BUN: Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is common in SLE patients, particularly if the kidneys are involved, which can lead to lupus nephritis. This is consistent with the client's reported difficulty urinating, which may suggest kidney involvement.
C. Increased hemoglobin: Hemoglobin is typically decreased in SLE due to various factors such as chronic inflammation, kidney involvement (leading to decreased erythropoietin production), or autoimmune hemolytic anemia where the immune system attacks red blood cells.
D. 2+ urine protein: Proteinuria is a common finding in SLE, particularly when kidney involvement (lupus nephritis) occurs. It indicates kidney damage or dysfunction, which aligns with the client's reported difficulty urinating.
E. Decreased serum C3 and C4: Complement levels, particularly C3 and C4, are often decreased in SLE due to their consumption during immune complex formation and inflammatory processes. This is a typical laboratory finding in active SLE.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Kaposi's sarcoma: Kaposi's sarcoma is a type of cancer that is commonly associated with later stages of HIV infection, particularly in AIDS. It is not an initial symptom of HIV infection.
B. Fungal and bacterial infections: While fungal and bacterial infections can become more common as HIV progresses and the immune system weakens, they are not typically part of the initial symptoms of HIV infection. They occur later in the disease process.
C. Flu-like symptoms and night sweats: Early HIV infection often presents with flu-like symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and night sweats. These symptoms are typically seen in the acute retroviral syndrome (ARS), which occurs 2 to 4 weeks after exposure to the virus.
D. Pneumocystis lung infection: Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a serious lung infection that typically occurs in the later stages of HIV infection, when the immune system is significantly weakened, and is not a manifestation of early HIV infection.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Hypotension: While hypotension is a serious sign of anaphylaxis and requires intervention, it is not the immediate priority. Stridor, which indicates a compromised airway, takes precedence as it can lead to respiratory arrest if not addressed quickly.
B. Vomiting: Vomiting may occur during anaphylaxis, but it is not as life-threatening as airway compromise. It requires treatment but is secondary to managing the airway first to prevent more severe complications.
C. Urticaria: Urticaria (hives) is a common symptom of anaphylaxis, but it is not as critical as signs of airway obstruction. While it indicates an allergic reaction, stridor represents an immediate threat to the patient's ability to breathe.
D. Stridor: Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound that indicates upper airway obstruction, which is the most immediate life-threatening concern in anaphylaxis. Prompt intervention is necessary to secure the airway and prevent respiratory failure.
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