A nurse is reviewing the laboratory data of a patient who is scheduled for a liver biopsy. Which of the following values should the nurse report to the provider?
Platelets 60,000/mm (150,000 to 400,000/mm)
Ammonia 55 mcg/dL (10 to 80 mcg/dL)
Aspartate aminotransferase 34 units/L (0 to 34 units/L)
Bilirubin 1.0 mg/dL (0.3 to 1.0 mg/dL) .
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A.
Choice A rationale
A platelet count of 60,000/mm is significantly lower than the normal range of 150,000 to 400,000/mm. Platelets are crucial for blood clotting, and a low count can increase the risk of bleeding, which is a serious concern for a patient scheduled for a liver biopsy. Therefore, the nurse should report this value to the provider.
Choice B rationale
An ammonia level of 55 mcg/dL falls within the normal range of 10 to 80 mcg/dL1. Ammonia is a byproduct of protein metabolism and is converted to urea in the liver for excretion. Normal levels do not typically pose a concern for liver biopsy.
Choice C rationale
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme found in various tissues, including the liver. An AST level of 34 units/L is at the upper limit of the normal range (0 to 34 units/L)1. While it’s
important to monitor, it does not necessarily need to be reported to the provider before a liver biopsy if there are no other signs of liver disease.
Choice D rationale
A bilirubin level of 1.0 mg/dL is within the normal range (0.3 to 1.0 mg/dL)1. Bilirubin is a waste product from the breakdown of red blood cells and is processed by the liver. Normal levels indicate that the liver is functioning properly in this regard.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A decreased level of consciousness in a client who had a head injury 2 days ago is a critical sign that requires immediate attention. This could indicate a serious complication such as brain swelling or bleeding. The other clients’ needs, while important, are not as immediately life- threatening and can be addressed after the client with the head injury is stabilized.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A sigmoidoscopy is a procedure used to examine the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon and rectum). The knee-chest position allows for better visualization of the sigmoid colon by straightening the rectosigmoid junction.
Choice B rationale
The prone position is not typically used for sigmoidoscopy. This position does not provide optimal visualization of the sigmoid colon.
Choice C rationale
The orthopneic position, which involves sitting up and leaning forward, is not used for sigmoidoscopy.
Choice D rationale
The Trendelenburg position, which involves lying flat with the feet elevated higher than the head, is not used for sigmoidoscopy.
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