A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values of a client who is at risk for disseminated intravascular coagulopathy. Which of the following values should the nurse report to the provider?
Platelets 156,000/mm³
Fibrinogen 85 mg/dL
PT 12 seconds
PTT 64 seconds
The Correct Answer is B
A. Platelets 156,000/mm³: This platelet count is within the normal range (normal range: 150,000 to 400,000/mm³). Although disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) can lead to thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), the platelet count in this scenario is not indicative of DIC.
B. Fibrinogen 85 mg/dL: This is the correct answer. A decreased fibrinogen level is often seen in DIC. Fibrinogen is consumed in the formation of microclots, and a low level may indicate ongoing coagulation.
C. PT 12 seconds: The prothrombin time (PT) is within the normal range. In DIC, the PT may be prolonged due to the consumption of clotting factors, but in this case, the PT is normal.
D. PTT 64 seconds: The partial thromboplastin time (PTT) is prolonged, which can be an indication of DIC. However, the more specific indicator in this scenario is the low fibrinogen level.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Schilling test: This is the correct answer. The Schilling test is used to diagnose pernicious anemia, which is caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. The test measures the absorption of vitamin B12 in the gastrointestinal tract.
B. Haptoglobin: Haptoglobin is a test used to assess hemolysis and is not specific for pernicious anemia.
C. Sweat test: The sweat test is used to diagnose cystic fibrosis and is not relevant to the diagnosis of pernicious anemia.
D. Antinuclear antibodies: Antinuclear antibodies are tested to diagnose autoimmune disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and are not specific to pernicious anemia.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Excessive thrombosis and bleeding
Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) is a complex and serious condition characterized by widespread activation of the coagulation cascade, leading to both excessive clot formation (thrombosis) and simultaneous consumption of clotting factors and platelets, resulting in bleeding. DIC can occur as a secondary complication to various conditions such as sepsis, trauma, or obstetric complications.
B. Increased clotting factors: In DIC, there is consumption and depletion of clotting factors, not an increase.
C. Progressive increase in platelet production: Platelet production does not increase in DIC; instead, there is consumption and decreased platelet count.
D. Immediate sodium and fluid retention: DIC is not associated with immediate sodium and fluid retention; instead, it is characterized by fluid loss due to bleeding.
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