A nurse is caring for a client who has human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Which of the following laboratory values would be most concerning to the nurse?
Positive Western blot test
CD4-T-cell count 505 cells/mm³ (nl. 500-1500 cells/mm³)
Platelets 115,000/mm³ (nl. 140,000-400,000/mm³)
White blood cell (WBC) count 800/mm³ (nl. 5000-10,000/mm³)
The Correct Answer is D
A. A positive Western blot test confirms the diagnosis of HIV, but it is not concerning once the diagnosis has been established.
B. A CD4-T-cell count of 505 cells/mm³ is low but not critically low. While it does indicate immunosuppression, it is not the most concerning value presented.
C. A platelet count of 115,000/mm³ is lower than normal and may indicate a risk for bleeding, but it is not as concerning as a critically low white blood cell count.
D. A WBC count of 800/mm³ is severely low and indicates a high risk for infection, which is particularly concerning in a client with HIV, as it suggests significant immunosuppression and vulnerability to opportunistic infections.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. An HbA1c level of 7.5% indicates suboptimal long-term glucose control. The target for many diabetic patients is usually below 7%, but it may not require immediate action compared to more acute indicators.
B. A 2-hour post-prandial blood glucose level of 122 mg/dL is slightly above the normal range but not significantly high. This result alone is not as indicative of inadequate control as other values.
C. A random blood glucose level of 300 mg/dL is significantly elevated and indicates poor glucose control. This value is much higher than the normal range and suggests a need for further teaching and adjustment of diabetes management.
D. A fasting blood glucose level of 48 mg/dL is low and could indicate hypoglycemia rather than inadequate control. This level requires immediate attention but does not reflect poor long-term diabetes management.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Using a portable electronic thermometer is incorrect as the device must be dedicated to the client to avoid cross-contamination.
B. Wiping the stethoscope with alcohol after use is insufficient because alcohol-based sanitizers are ineffective against C. difficile spores. The stethoscope should be cleaned with bleach-based disinfectant.
C. Removing the protective gown before leaving the client's room is correct as it prevents the spread of C. difficile spores outside the isolation area.
D. Removing the protective gown before removing gloves is incorrect. Gloves should be removed first to prevent contamination when removing the gown.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.