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 B
Explanation
A. "DIC is controllable with lifelong heparin usage": This statement is not accurate. While heparin may be used in the treatment of DIC, it is not a lifelong therapy, and the approach to treatment depends on the underlying cause.
B. "DIC is caused by abnormal coagulation involving fibrinogen": This is the correct answer. DIC is a condition characterized by widespread activation of the clotting cascade, leading to the formation of microthrombi throughout the body. Abnormal coagulation involves the consumption of clotting factors, including fibrinogen.
C. "DIC is a genetic disorder involving a vitamin K deficiency": This statement is not accurate. DIC is not a genetic disorder, and it is not primarily related to vitamin K deficiency. It is an acquired condition often associated with severe infections, sepsis, trauma, or other critical illnesses.
D. "DIC is characterized by an elevated platelet count": This statement is not accurate. In DIC, there is often a decrease in platelet count due to consumption and activation of platelets in the widespread formation of microthrombi.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The pain persists with rest and organic nitrates: This statement is incorrect. Anginal pain typically improves with rest and can be relieved by the administration of organic nitrates.
B. The pain usually lasts longer than 20 min: This statement is incorrect. Anginal pain is often brief and lasts for a few minutes, typically less than 20 minutes.
C. Exertion and anxiety can trigger the pain: This is the correct answer. Anginal pain is often triggered by activities that increase the workload of the heart, such as exertion or emotional stress (anxiety). These triggers lead to an increased demand for oxygen by the heart muscle, which may exceed the compromised blood supply, resulting in angina.
D. The pain often radiates to the jaw or the back: This statement is correct. Anginal pain may radiate to the jaw, back, shoulder, arm, or neck. The radiation of pain is a characteristic feature of angina.
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