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","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Oxygen saturation is not provided in the exhibits, so there is no data available to evaluate if it indicates improvement in the client’s condition. While oxygen saturation is an important indicator of respiratory function and overall oxygenation status, its absence means it cannot be used to assess the client’s progress in this case.
Choice B rationale:
Hemoglobin levels decreased from 14 g/dL on postoperative day 1 to 10.5 g/dL on postoperative day 2. This decline in hemoglobin levels suggests that the client may be experiencing blood loss or anemia, which is not indicative of improvement. Generally, an improvement in the client’s condition would be reflected in stable or increasing hemoglobin levels rather than a decrease.
Choice C rationale:
Mental status is an important indicator of overall recovery and improvement. On postoperative day 2, the client is described as drowsy but alert to voice. This level of responsiveness indicates an improvement in mental status compared to what might be expected immediately post-surgery. A client who is drowsy but still responsive to verbal stimuli is showing signs of regaining consciousness and cognitive function, which is a positive sign of recovery.
Choice D rationale:
Urinary output is not provided in the exhibits, so there is no data available to assess if it indicates improvement. Urinary output is an important measure of kidney function and fluid status, but without specific data, it cannot be used to determine the client’s progress.
Choice E rationale:
The WBC count increased from 7,000/mm³ on day 1 to 8,500/mm³ on day 2, which is within the normal range and indicates a healthy immune response.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Avoiding administration of the influenza vaccine is not a recommended intervention for a patient experiencing sickle cell crises. Vaccinations are important for patients with sickle cell disease to prevent infections that can trigger crises.
Choice B rationale
Providing a diet that is low in protein is not a recommended intervention for a patient experiencing sickle cell crises. Patients with sickle cell disease need a balanced diet that includes adequate protein to support tissue repair and growth.
Choice C rationale
Decreasing fluid intake to 1,500 mL daily is not a recommended intervention for a patient experiencing sickle cell crises. Adequate hydration is important to prevent sickling of cells and to maintain blood volume.
Choice D rationale
Maintaining the patient on bed rest is the correct intervention. Rest can help to decrease the body’s demand for oxygen, reduce stress on the body, and prevent complications such as acute chest syndrome.
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