A nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a client who is scheduled for surgery this morning. Which of the following results will cause the nurse to place a call to the surgical team?
Potassium: 2.9 mEq/L (2.9 mm)
Creatinine: 1.2 mg/dL (106.1 umol/L)
Hemoglobin: 14.8 mg/dL (148 mmol/L)
Sodium: 134 mEq/L (134 mmol/L)
The Correct Answer is A
A. A potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L is below the normal range (typically 3.5-5.0 mEq/L). Abnormal potassium levels can affect cardiac function, leading to arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), especially if the potassium level drops further or if there is rapid fluctuation. This is a critical finding that requires immediate attention from the surgical team to assess the client's cardiac status and determine if potassium replacement is needed before proceeding with surgery.
B. Creatinine levels are used to assess kidney function. A creatinine level of 1.2 mg/dL is within the normal range (typically 0.6-1.2 mg/dL). While kidney function is important to evaluate before surgery, this result is not immediately concerning enough to require an urgent call to the surgical team.
C. Hemoglobin levels are assessed to evaluate oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. A hemoglobin level of 14.8 g/dL is within the normal range (typically 12-16 g/dL for women and 13-18 g/dL for men). This result indicates adequate oxygen-carrying capacity and does not require immediate communication with the surgical team.
D. Sodium levels are important for fluid balance and nerve function. A sodium level of 134 mEq/L is within the normal range (typically 135-145 mEq/L). While sodium levels should be monitored, this result is not critically abnormal and does not necessitate an urgent call to the surgical team.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Heparin should be administered using IV tubing that is specifically labeled for heparin or that has been dedicated for anticoagulant use only. However, this is not the most important action.
B. Heparin is not typically administered as a bolus (large single dose) because of its rapid onset of action and potential for causing bleeding complications. Instead, heparin is usually administered as a continuous IV infusion to achieve and maintain therapeutic anticoagulation.
C. While vitamin K is an antidote for reversing the effects of warfarin (a different type of anticoagulant), it is not used for reversing the effects of heparin. The reversal agent for heparin is protamine sulfate. Therefore, having vitamin K available is not necessary for managing a client receiving heparin.
D. The aPTT is a laboratory test used to monitor the therapeutic effect of heparin therapy. It measures the clotting time of blood and helps ensure that the client's heparin infusion is within the desired therapeutic range. Checking aPTT regularly (usually every 4-6 hours initially, then adjusting based on results) is essential to maintain therapeutic anticoagulation and avoid complications like bleeding or clotting.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. This statement suggests symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency or glossitis, which are not typical signs of digoxin toxicity. Therefore, it is unlikely to indicate digoxin toxicity.
B. Blurred vision is a common neurological symptom of digoxin toxicity. It occurs due to disturbances in visual acuity and color vision, which can manifest as seeing halos around lights or difficulty focusing. Therefore, this statement is indicative of potential digoxin toxicity.
C. Weight gain can occur due to fluid retention, which is a symptom of heart failure rather than digoxin toxicity. Digoxin toxicity typically presents with neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms rather than weight gain.
D. Constipation is not typically associated with digoxin toxicity. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and anorexia are more common with digoxin toxicity, but constipation is not a specific indicator.
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