A nurse is reviewing the diagnostic evaluation of a client suspected to have polycythemia.
What laboratory findings would the nurse expect to find in a client with primary polycythemia?

Elevated serum EPO levels.

Decreased platelet count.

Normal hemoglobin levels.

Low red blood cell count.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

Elevated serum EPO levels.

Rationale: Primary polycythemia, also known as polycythemia vera, is characterized by the overproduction of red blood cells independent of normal regulatory mechanisms.

In response to the increased red blood cell count, the body typically tries to compensate by decreasing the production of erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production.

Therefore, elevated serum EPO levels are often seen in primary polycythemia as the body tries to regulate the overproduction of red blood cells.

Choice B rationale:

Decreased platelet count.

Rationale: Platelet count is typically not decreased in primary polycythemia.

In fact, it may be increased due to the overall increase in blood cell production.

Choice C rationale:

Normal hemoglobin levels.

Rationale: Hemoglobin levels are typically elevated in primary polycythemia due to the increase in red blood cell mass.

Choice D rationale:

Low red blood cell count.

Rationale: In primary polycythemia, the hallmark is an elevated red blood cell count, not a low count.

The condition is characterized by the overproduction of red blood cells.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Hyperthyroidism can lead to an increase in red blood cell production, known as secondary polycythemia.

However, it is not the most likely cause in this scenario.

The primary cause of secondary polycythemia is usually related to hypoxia or conditions that increase erythropoietin production.

Choice B rationale:

Renal cysts can lead to polycythemia due to increased erythropoietin production by the kidneys.

When the kidneys detect low oxygen levels in the blood (hypoxia), they release erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow.

Renal cysts can disrupt the normal function of the kidneys and trigger excessive erythropoietin release, causing secondary polycythemia.

Choice C rationale:

Smoking can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which can cause secondary polycythemia due to chronic hypoxia.

However, renal cysts are a more direct cause in this scenario.

Choice D rationale:

Obesity can lead to sleep apnea, which can cause secondary polycythemia due to chronic hypoxia during sleep.

However, renal cysts are a more likely cause of secondary polycythemia than obesity alone.

A. "I've been feeling tired and weak lately.” B. "My skin has become very red and flushed.” C. "I've noticed frequent nosebleeds.” D. "I've been experiencing shortness of breath.”

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Feeling tired and weak is a common symptom of polycythemia due to the increased viscosity of the blood.

However, this is a general symptom and not specific to polycythemia alone.

Many conditions can cause fatigue.

Choice B rationale:

Red and flushed skin is a characteristic sign of polycythemia.

Increased red blood cell count can lead to increased blood flow to the skin, resulting in a flushed appearance.

This is a specific symptom of polycythemia and should be assessed during the physical examination.

Choice C rationale:

Frequent nosebleeds can occur in polycythemia due to increased blood viscosity and pressure on blood vessels.

This is another specific symptom that should be assessed in a patient with suspected polycythemia.

Choice D rationale:

Shortness of breath can also be a symptom of polycythemia, especially when there is an excessive increase in red blood cells.

However, like fatigue, it is not specific to polycythemia and can be caused by various respiratory and cardiac conditions.

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A nurse is reviewing the diagnostic evaluation of a client suspected to have polycythemia. What laboratory findings would the nurse expect to find in a client with primary polycythemia?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client is diagnosed with secondary polycythemia.Which underlying medical conditions could be contributing to this diagnosis? Select the most likely cause.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is assessing a patient with suspected polycythemia.Which of the following signs and symptoms should the nurse specifically assess for during the physical examination?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

(Select all that apply):A nurse is assessing a patient with polycythemia.Which clinical manifestations are commonly associated with this condition? Select all that apply.

A nurse is reviewing the diagnostic evaluation of a client suspected to have polycythemia. What laboratory findings would the nurse expect to find in a client with primary polycythemia?

(Select all that apply): A nurse is providing care for a patient with polycythemia.Which nursing interventions are appropriate for this patient? (Select three.)

A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with polycythemia.Which clinical manifestations can the nurse expect to assess in this client? .

A nurse is caring for a patient with primary polycythemia.What is the primary goal of treatment for this patient?

A client has been diagnosed with secondary polycythemia. What should the nurse prioritize in the care plan for this client?

A client diagnosed with polycythemia is receiving education on self-care.Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education?

A nurse is educating a patient with primary polycythemia on potential complications. Which statement by the nurse is accurate regarding the risks associated with this condition?

A nurse is reviewing the diagnostic evaluation of a client suspected to have polycythemia.
What laboratory findings would the nurse expect to find in a client with primary polycythemia?