A nurse is reviewing the diagnostic test results of an older adult female client who is preoperative for a knee arthroplasty. The nurse should notify the surgeon of which of the following results?

Hematocrit 40%

Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL

WBC count 20,000/mm3

Potassium 3.8 mEq/L

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A.   A hematocrit of 40% is within the normal range for females, which is typically around 37-47%. This result is not concerning and does not typically require immediate notification to the surgeon.
B.   A creatinine level of 0.9 mg/dL is within the normal range for adults (normal range varies slightly among laboratories but is generally around 0.5-1.1 mg/dL). This result indicates normal kidney function and does not require immediate notification.
C.   A white blood cell (WBC) count of 20,000/mm3 is elevated above the normal range, which is typically between 4,500-11,000/mm3. An elevated WBC count could indicate infection or inflammation. Given the client is preoperative, an elevated WBC count may suggest an underlying infection that needs to be addressed before proceeding with surgery. The nurse should notify the surgeon promptly so appropriate evaluation and management can be initiated.
D.   A potassium level of 3.8 mEq/L is within the normal range (normal range is generally 3.5-5.0 mEq/L). This result is not concerning and does not require immediate notification to the surgeon.

Nursing Test Bank

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decrease in bicarbonate or an increase in acids, which can be caused by conditions like kidney failure or diabetic ketoacidosis, but it is not typically associated with numbness and tingling.
B. Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a high pH (>7.45) and a decreased PaCO2 (<35 mm Hg). It typically results from hyperventilation, which leads to excessive elimination of CO2 and subsequent alkalosis. This condition is less likely to occur in gastroenteritis unless there are other complicating factors such as anxiety or pain causing increased respiratory rate.
C. In the context of gastroenteritis, where there may be a loss of stomach acids through vomiting or diarrhea, the most likely acid-base imbalance would be metabolic alkalosis.
D. Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a low pH and an elevated PaCO2 (>45 mm Hg). It results from hypoventilation, leading to retention of CO2 and subsequent acidosis. Respiratory acidosis would not typically present with numbness and tingling in the extremities in the context of gastroenteritis.

A. Assessment B. Planning C. Implementation D. Evaluation

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Assessment is the first phase of the nursing process where the nurse collects data about the client's health status, including medical history, current symptoms, and potential allergies. During the assessment phase, the nurse should specifically ask the client about any known allergies to medications, foods, or other substances. This information is crucial for ensuring patient safety during diagnostic testing and any subsequent treatments.
B. The planning phase involves developing a care plan based on the assessment data gathered. While the nurse does consider potential allergies during this phase when planning interventions and care strategies, the primary focus is on creating a plan that addresses the client's specific needs and goals.
C. Implementation is the phase where the nurse carries out the interventions outlined in the care plan. If the client has allergies identified during the assessment phase, the nurse must ensure that these allergies are communicated to the healthcare team and that appropriate precautions are taken during diagnostic testing and any procedures or treatments.

D. Evaluation is the final phase of the nursing process where the nurse assesses the client's response to interventions and determines the effectiveness of the care plan. Although allergies are primarily addressed in the assessment phase, the nurse continues to monitor for allergic reactions throughout the client's care and promptly addresses any concerns that arise.

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A nurse is reviewing the diagnostic test results of an older adult female client who is preoperative for a knee arthroplasty. The nurse should notify the surgeon of which of the following results?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is admitting a client who has gastroenteritis and is reporting numbness and tingling of the toes and fingers. The nurse should recognize the client is experiencing which of the following acid-base imbalances?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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