A nurse is caring for a client who has chronic renal disease and is receiving therapy with epoetin alfa. Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse review for an indication of a therapeutic effect of the medication?
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
The hematocrit (Hct)
The leukocyte count
The platelet count
The Correct Answer is B
A. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a nonspecific marker of inflammation and is not used to assess the therapeutic effect of epoetin alfa.
B. The hematocrit (Hct) measures the proportion of red blood cells in the blood. Epoetin alfa stimulates the production of red blood cells, leading to an increase in hematocrit levels, indicating a therapeutic effect of the medication.
C. The leukocyte count measures the number of white blood cells in the blood and is not relevant for assessing the therapeutic effect of epoetin alfa.
D. The platelet count measures the number of platelets in the blood and is not relevant for assessing the therapeutic effect of epoetin alfa.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and low bicarbonate levels (HCO3).
B. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and high bicarbonate levels (HCO3).
C. Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and low PaCO2 levels.
D. The pH is below the normal range (7.35-7.45), indicating acidosis. The PaCO2 is elevated, indicating respiratory acidosis, as an increase in PaCO2 leads to an increase in carbonic acid and a decrease in pH.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Dry skin is not a typical manifestation of respiratory acidosis.
B. Abdominal pain is not a typical manifestation of respiratory acidosis.
C. Lethargy and altered mental status are common manifestations of respiratory acidosis due to the effects of hypercapnia (elevated PaCO2) on the central nervous system.
D. Numbness of fingers is not a typical manifestation of respiratory acidosis.

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