A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who had a significant postpartum hemorrhage.
Which of the following findings indicates a need for blood transfusion?
Hemoglobin 10 g/dL
Hematocrit 30%
Platelets 150,000/mm3
Potassium 4 mEq/L.
The Correct Answer is A
This indicates a need for blood transfusion because it is below the normal range of 12 to 16 g/dL for women.
Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues. A low hemoglobin level can cause symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
Choice B is wrong because hematocrit 30% is within the normal range of 37 to 47% for women.
Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. A low hematocrit can indicate blood loss, but it is not a criterion for blood transfusion by itself.
Choice C is wrong because platelets 150,000/mm3 are within the normal range of 150,000 to 450,000/mm3 for both men and women.
Platelets are the cells that help with blood clotting. A low platelet count can increase the risk of bleeding, but it is not a criterion for blood transfusion by itself.
Choice D is wrong because potassium 4 mEq/L is within the normal range of 3.5 to 5 mEq/L for both men and women.
Potassium is an electrolyte that helps with nerve and muscle function.
A high or low potassium
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Massaging the uterine fundus gently is the first action that the nurse should take to stimulate uterine contractions and control bleeding due to uterine atony.Uterine atony is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage and occurs when the uterus fails to contract after delivery.
Choice A is wrong because administering oxytocin as prescribed is a secondary action that can be taken after massaging the uterine fundus if bleeding persists.Oxytocin is a medication that promotes uterine contraction and reduces blood loss.
Choice C is wrong because starting an intravenous line with a large bore catheter is a tertiary action that can be taken after massaging the uterine fundus and administering oxytocin if bleeding continues.An intravenous line can provide fluid replacement and blood transfusion if needed.
Choice D is wrong because placing the client in a side lying position is not a priority action for postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony.This position may help reduce pressure on the vena cava and improve blood flow, but it does not address the underlying cause of bleeding.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This indicates that the uterus has contracted well and the bleeding has stopped.Oxytocin is a drug that helps the uterus to contract and prevent postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), which is excessive bleeding after childbirth.
Choice B is wrong because the lochia flow should be moderate and dark red, not bright red.Bright red blood suggests active bleeding and possible PPH.
Choice C is wrong because the blood pressure is low and the pulse is high, which are signs of shock due to blood loss.PPH can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure and lead to shock or death.
Choice D is wrong because the urine output is low and the specific gravity is high, which are signs of dehydration due to blood loss.PPH can cause fluid imbalance and kidney damage.
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