A nurse is evaluating a client's laboratory results. The nurse should recognize that an increase in the client's prostate-specific antigen (PSA) laboratory value is indicative of which of the following diagnoses?
Prostatic cancer
Colon cancer
Liver cancer
Breast cancer
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: An increased prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level is primarily indicative of prostatic conditions, including prostate cancer. PSA is a protein produced by both normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels can be a sign of prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostatitis. It is an important marker used in the screening and monitoring of prostate cancer.
Choice B reason: Colon cancer does not typically result in elevated PSA levels. Instead, colon cancer is often associated with markers like carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). PSA is specific to prostate tissue, and its elevation is not related to colon cancer.
Choice C reason: Liver cancer is not associated with increased PSA levels. Liver function tests, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and imaging studies are more relevant in the diagnosis and monitoring of liver cancer. PSA levels do not provide information about liver cancer.
Choice D reason: Breast cancer does not affect PSA levels. Breast cancer markers include CA 15-3, CA 27.29, and others specific to breast tissue. PSA is a prostate-specific marker and is not used in the context of breast cancer diagnosis or monitoring.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Nausea and vomiting are common manifestations of peritonitis, an infection of the peritoneal cavity, often a complication of peritoneal dialysis. These symptoms, along with abdominal pain and fever, indicate peritoneal irritation and inflammation.
Choice B reason: Bradycardia, or slow heart rate, is not a typical symptom of peritonitis. It is more commonly associated with other conditions such as heart-related issues or severe hypothermia.
Choice C reason: Hyperactive bowel sounds can occur with various gastrointestinal disturbances, but they are not specifically indicative of peritonitis. Peritonitis typically presents with decreased bowel sounds due to inflammation and irritation of the peritoneum.
Choice D reason: Increased urinary output is not a symptom of peritonitis. In fact, peritonitis can sometimes cause decreased urine output if the infection affects kidney function.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: The use of a colostomy bag is expected following surgery for colorectal cancer that involves the creation of a stoma. This does not indicate a complication.
Choice B reason: A loss of appetite is common after major surgery and can be managed with nutritional support and gradual reintroduction of food.
Choice C reason: Absent bowel sounds in the lower abdominal quadrants could indicate a paralytic ileus or bowel obstruction, which are serious complications requiring immediate intervention to prevent further issues such as bowel ischemia.
Choice D reason: Mild pain at the surgical site is expected and can be managed with prescribed pain medications. It does not indicate a serious complication.
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.