A nurse is caring for a client who has developed pulmonary embolism (PE). Which of the following diagnostic tests should the nurse anticipate the provider to prescribe to confirm the client's condition?(Select All that Apply.)
D-dimer blood test
Complete blood count (CBC)
CT scan
Chest x-ray
Lung ventilation and perfusion scan (VQ scan)
Correct Answer : A,C,E
A. D-dimer blood test - A D-dimer test measures clot breakdown products in the blood. Elevated levels suggest the presence of an abnormal blood clot, such as in PE, although it is not specific.
B. Complete blood count (CBC) - A CBC is not typically used to diagnose PE. It may be ordered to check for other conditions or as part of the overall health assessment, but it doesn't confirm PE.
C. CT scan - A CT pulmonary angiography is the gold standard for diagnosing PE. It provides detailed images of the blood vessels in the lungs.
D. Chest x-ray - A chest x-ray is not diagnostic for PE. It is often performed to rule out other causes of the client’s symptoms (e.g., pneumonia, pneumothorax) but does not confirm the presence of a pulmonary embolism.
E. Lung ventilation and perfusion scan (VQ scan)
A VQ scan is another diagnostic tool for PE, especially in clients who cannot tolerate contrast dye required for CT scans. It assesses the ventilation and perfusion of the lungs and identifies mismatches suggestive of PE.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Obtain a venous duplex ultrasound. These symptoms suggest a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and a venous duplex ultrasound is the standard diagnostic test to confirm the presence of a thrombus in the veins.
B. Obtain impedance plethysmography: This is less commonly used than ultrasound and may not provide as clear a diagnosis.
C. Monitor Homan's sign: Homan's sign is no longer considered reliable or safe for diagnosing DVT due to the risk of dislodging a thrombus.
D. Apply cold therapy to the affected leg: Cold therapy is not appropriate for DVT as it does not treat the underlying issue and could potentially cause vasoconstriction, worsening the condition.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Lie on your back when sleeping - While specific sleeping positions might be recommended, lying on the back is not necessarily required unless specified by the surgeon.
B. Wash your hair 24 hr after surgery - Hair washing is usually advised against within the first 24-48 hours post-surgery to prevent infection and avoid disturbing the surgical site.
C. Resume your exercise routine - Exercise is typically restricted initially to prevent strain or injury to the surgical area.
D. Eat foods that are soft - Soft foods are recommended to avoid strain on the surgical site, reduce the risk of dislodging any packing or stitches, and promote comfort during the initial healing period.
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