A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is at 10 weeks of gestation regarding the purposes of laboratory tests. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
"White blood cell count is an indicator of anemia.”
"Urine specific gravity identifies my risk for pregnancy induced hypertension.”
"Platelet count identifies if I am at risk for bleeding.”
"Sedimentation rate checks for signs of cancer.”
The Correct Answer is C
(A) "White blood cell count is an indicator of anemia.”
White blood cell count is not directly related to anemia. Anemia is typically assessed by hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, which reflect the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. White blood cell count measures immune system function and can indicate infection or inflammation rather than anemia.
(B) "Urine specific gravity identifies my risk for pregnancy induced hypertension.”
Urine specific gravity is a measure of urine concentration and hydration status, and it is not typically used to identify the risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension (preeclampsia). Preeclampsia is diagnosed based on symptoms such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and proteinuria (protein in the urine), along with other criteria.
(C) "Platelet count identifies if I am at risk for bleeding.”
Platelet count is a laboratory test that measures the number of platelets in the blood. Platelets are essential for blood clotting, so a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can indicate an increased risk of bleeding, which is pertinent to pregnancy, especially in cases of conditions like gestational thrombocytopenia or preeclampsia.
(D) "Sedimentation rate checks for signs of cancer.”
The sedimentation rate (ESR or sed rate) is a nonspecific test that measures inflammation in the body, but it is not used to check for signs of cancer specifically. Elevated sedimentation rate can indicate various inflammatory conditions such as infection, autoimmune diseases, or chronic inflammatory disorders. It is not a primary test for cancer diagnosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
(A) Maternal temperature 36.3°C (101°F):
While maternal temperature elevation can indicate infection, in this scenario, the sudden gush of vaginal fluid takes precedence as it could be indicative of premature rupture of membranes. However, assessing maternal temperature is important for ruling out maternal infection, but it is not the priority manifestation compared to assessing fetal well-being.
(B) Amniotic fluid with meconium noted:
While the presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid is concerning, assessing fetal heart tones is the priority. Meconium-stained amniotic fluid can indicate fetal distress, but the immediate concern is to determine if the fetus is experiencing any compromise or distress by assessing the fetal heart rate.
(C) Fetal heart tones 98/min:
In this scenario, the priority is to assess the well-being of the fetus. Fetal heart tones provide critical information about fetal status, indicating whether the baby is experiencing any distress or compromise. A fetal heart rate of 98 beats per minute (bpm) is within the normal range for a fetus at 34 weeks of gestation. However, any abnormalities or significant deviations from the normal fetal heart rate range may indicate fetal distress, requiring immediate intervention.
(D) Foul-smelling vaginal discharge:
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge can indicate infection, such as chorioamnionitis, which is a concern during pregnancy. However, in this scenario, assessing fetal well-being takes precedence as it is essential to ensure timely interventions to assess and manage any fetal distress.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
(a) Pedal edema
Pedal edema, or swelling of the feet and ankles, is a common finding during pregnancy due to increased fluid retention and pressure on the lower extremities from the growing uterus. While pedal edema should be monitored, it is not typically a concerning finding unless it is severe or accompanied by other symptoms suggestive of preeclampsia.
(b) BP of 132/84 mm Hg
A blood pressure of 132/84 mm Hg is within the normal range for pregnancy. However, if the client's blood pressure continues to increase or is accompanied by other symptoms of hypertension, such as proteinuria or headaches, it may warrant further evaluation.
(c) Weight gain of 1 kg (2.2 lb)
Weight gain during pregnancy is expected and can vary from person to person and from week to week. A weight gain of 1 kg (2.2 lb) over the course of a month is within the normal range for pregnancy and may not require immediate reporting to the provider unless there are other concerning symptoms.
(d) Double vision
Double vision (diplopia) can be a symptom of several conditions, including preeclampsia, which is a serious complication of pregnancy characterized by high blood pressure and proteinuria. Double vision can also be caused by other neurological or ophthalmologic conditions. Given its potential association with preeclampsia and other serious conditions, the nurse should promptly report double vision to the provider for further evaluation and management.
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