A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is at 32 weeks of gestation and has preeclampsia. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings is indicated with HELLP syndrome?
Bilirubin 1 mg/dL (0.1 to 1 mg/dL)
Uric acid 6.8 mg/dL (2 to 6.6 mg/dL)
Fibrinogen 500 mg/dL (200 to 400 mg/dL)
Aspartate aminotransferase 80 units/L (4 to 20 units/L)
The Correct Answer is D
A. Bilirubin 1 mg/dL (0.1 to 1 mg/dL):
Bilirubin levels can be elevated in conditions involving liver dysfunction or hemolysis, such as HELLP syndrome. However, a bilirubin level of 1 mg/dL falls within the normal range (0.1 to 1 mg/dL). While bilirubin levels may be elevated in some cases of HELLP syndrome, this particular value is not indicative of HELLP syndrome.
B. Uric acid 6.8 mg/dL (2 to 6.6 mg/dL):
Elevated uric acid levels are commonly seen in preeclampsia, but they are not specific to HELLP syndrome. Uric acid levels can rise due to decreased renal function and increased cell breakdown. However, while a level of 6.8 mg/dL is slightly elevated compared to the normal range (2 to 6.6 mg/dL), it alone does not confirm the presence of HELLP syndrome.
C. Fibrinogen 500 mg/dL (200 to 400 mg/dL):
Fibrinogen levels are typically increased in pregnancy, but they can be decreased in conditions associated with consumption coagulopathy, such as disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). However, elevated fibrinogen levels are not typically associated with HELLP syndrome. A level of 500 mg/dL is above the normal range (200 to 400 mg/dL), but this finding alone does not indicate HELLP syndrome.
D. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) 80 units/L (4 to 20 units/L):
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is a liver enzyme that can be elevated in liver injury or dysfunction, which can occur in HELLP syndrome. An AST level of 80 units/L is significantly elevated compared to the normal range (4 to 20 units/L), suggesting liver dysfunction. Elevated liver enzymes are a characteristic feature of HELLP syndrome, making this finding the most indicative of HELLP syndrome among the options provided.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","F"]
Explanation
A. Thromboembolism:
Thromboembolism refers to the formation of blood clots (thrombi) that break loose and travel through the bloodstream, potentially causing blockages in blood vessels (embolism). While thromboembolism is a risk in pregnancy, especially in individuals with risk factors such as obesity or a history of thromboembolic events, there are no specific indications in the scenario provided that suggest an increased risk of thromboembolism for this client.
B. Electrolyte imbalance:
The client's persistent nausea, vomiting, and ketonuria indicate significant dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Dehydration can lead to imbalances in electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and chloride, which are essential for proper bodily function. Laboratory findings of low potassium (hypokalemia) and elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) support the presence of electrolyte imbalances. These imbalances can have serious consequences for both the client and the fetus, including cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and metabolic disturbances.
C. Fetal growth restriction:
Hyperemesis gravidarum, characterized by severe nausea and vomiting leading to dehydration and weight loss, is associated with an increased risk of fetal growth restriction. Inadequate maternal nutrition and dehydration can compromise fetal growth and development, potentially leading to a smaller-than-expected size for gestational age. The client's weight loss and ketonuria further support the possibility of fetal growth restriction due to insufficient nutrient intake and placental perfusion.
D. Polyhydramnios:
Polyhydramnios refers to an excess of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus in the uterus. While hyperemesis gravidarum and dehydration can lead to maternal complications, such as electrolyte imbalances and fetal growth restriction, they are not typically associated with an increased risk of polyhydramnios. Polyhydramnios is more commonly linked to fetal anomalies, maternal diabetes, or fetal conditions that affect swallowing or fluid regulation, none of which are evident in the provided scenario.
E. Gestational diabetes mellitus:
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels during pregnancy. While GDM can lead to various complications for both the mother and the fetus, including macrosomia (large birth weight), birth injuries, and neonatal hypoglycemia, there are no indications in the scenario provided that suggest an increased risk of GDM for this client.
F. Spontaneous abortion:
Hyperemesis gravidarum, with severe nausea, vomiting, and weight loss, is associated with an increased risk of spontaneous abortion or miscarriage. Dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and maternal malnutrition can compromise maternal and fetal well-being, potentially leading to pregnancy loss. Therefore, the client is at an increased risk of spontaneous abortion due to the severity of her symptoms and the impact on her overall health and pregnancy.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Hypnosis can be beneficial if you practiced it during the prenatal period":
This statement is accurate. Hypnosis techniques for pain management during labor can be more effective if the client has practiced and familiarized themselves with the techniques during the prenatal period. Regular practice can help the client achieve a deeper state of relaxation and better utilize hypnosis for pain control during labor.
B. "Synchronized breathing will be required during hypnosis":
While synchronized breathing techniques can be part of hypnosis practice, it is not necessarily a requirement for hypnosis to be effective for pain management during labor. Different hypnosis techniques may focus on various aspects such as visualization, deep relaxation, or suggestion to manage pain.
C. "Focusing on controlling body functions will be helpful during hypnosis":
While focusing on controlling body functions, such as breathing or muscle tension, can be part of hypnosis techniques, it is not the only focus. Hypnosis for pain management during labor often involves guiding the mind to a state of deep relaxation and altering perceptions of pain rather than directly controlling body functions.
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