A nurse is caring for a patient who has suffered a major burn. Of the lab values listed, which would be concerning as it is a strong indicator of massive cell destruction?
Calcium 8.0 mg/dL
Glucose 180 mg/dL
Potassium 6.0 mg/dL
Sodium 130 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is C
A. Calcium 8.0 mg/dL: A calcium level of 8.0 mg/dL is slightly below the normal range but is not a strong indicator of massive cell destruction. It may be seen in a variety of conditions, including burns, but it is not as directly concerning as other findings.
B. Glucose 180 mg/dL: Elevated glucose levels can occur due to stress, such as a burn injury, and are not specifically indicative of massive cell destruction. Stress-induced hyperglycemia is common and may resolve with proper management of the burn and stress response.
C. Potassium 6.0 mg/dL: Potassium levels of 6.0 mg/dL or higher can be a strong indicator of massive cell destruction. In burn injuries, the breakdown of cells (especially muscle cells) releases intracellular potassium into the bloodstream, leading to hyperkalemia, which is life-threatening and requires immediate attention.
D. Sodium 130 mEq/L: A sodium level of 130 mEq/L indicates mild hyponatremia. While electrolyte imbalances are common in burn patients, this is not as immediately concerning as hyperkalemia and is typically addressed through fluid management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. These medications should keep the viral load suppressed: ART medications like dolutegravir and lamivudine are designed to reduce the HIV viral load, preventing disease progression and transmission.
B. There are no side effects of ART: This is incorrect as ART can have side effects like gastrointestinal disturbances, headaches, and fatigue that need to be managed.
C. Headache, nausea, vomiting, and anorexia are known side effects of these medications: Common side effects of ART include gastrointestinal issues and headaches, which can be managed with supportive care.
D. We will measure the effectiveness of ART by measuring CD4+T cell counts: CD4+T cell count is a key indicator of immune function and is used to monitor ART effectiveness in HIV treatment.
E. Take ART with antacids to ensure they do not upset the stomach: Antacids can interfere with ART absorption, especially dolutegravir, making it less effective.
F. ART medications will cause wasting syndrome: Wasting syndrome occurs in advanced, untreated HIV, not from ART, which helps improve nutritional status and immune function.
G. ART causes insomnia, so it should be taken at night: Not all ART medications cause insomnia. The timing of ART should follow provider instructions and is not based on insomnia concerns.
H. If you miss a dose of medication, take two of that pill as soon as you think of it: Doubling doses after a missed dose can increase side effects and resistance. Patients should follow specific instructions for missed doses.
Correct Answer is ["B","F"]
Explanation
A. Ciprofloxacin: Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, but it is not typically used for the treatment of ulcerative colitis unless there is a secondary infection. It does not directly address the inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis.
B. Golimumab: Golimumab is a biologic medication (TNF-alpha inhibitor) used for the treatment of moderate to severe ulcerative colitis. It helps to reduce inflammation in the colon and is appropriate for use during a flare-up of ulcerative colitis.
C. Sumatriptan: Sumatriptan is a medication used to treat migraines and does not have a role in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. It does not affect the inflammatory processes involved in ulcerative colitis.
D. Ibuprofen: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen should be avoided in patients with ulcerative colitis because they can exacerbate symptoms, cause irritation, and potentially worsen the disease by increasing the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
E. Aspirin: Aspirin is also an NSAID (acetylsalicylic acid). Similar to ibuprofen, NSAIDs like aspirin can worsen ulcerative colitis symptoms, increase inflammation, and irritate the gastrointestinal lining. Therefore, aspirin is generally avoided in clients with ulcerative colitis
F. Methylprednisolone: Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid used for managing acute flare-ups of ulcerative colitis. It works by reducing inflammation in the colon and is commonly prescribed during active flare-ups to control symptoms.
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