A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a toddler who has moderate dehydration. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Decreased hematocrit
Increased respiratory rate
Decreased heart rate
Increased platelet count
The Correct Answer is B
A. Decreased hematocrit: Hematocrit usually increases in dehydration due to the concentration of red blood cells in a smaller volume of plasma.
B. Increased respiratory rate: Dehydration can lead to tachypnea (increased respiratory rate) as the body attempts to compensate for the decreased blood volume and maintain oxygen delivery.
C. Decreased heart rate: Dehydration typically causes tachycardia (increased heart rate) as the body tries to maintain adequate blood circulation and pressure.
D. Increased platelet count: Dehydration does not typically affect platelet count significantly, though it may concentrate blood components, including platelets, making them appear elevated on a lab test.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Remove the window and view the incision. Inspecting the incision through the cast window is important for monitoring for signs of infection or complications, but it is not the first priority. Ensuring the extremity has adequate circulation and function is critical initially.
B. Medicate the client for pain. Pain management is essential, especially postoperatively, but assessing the integrity and function of the affected extremity takes precedence to ensure there are no immediate complications like compromised circulation or nerve damage.
C. Perform neurovascular checks of the affected extremity. Performing neurovascular checks is the highest priority to ensure that circulation, sensation, and movement are intact. This helps identify any immediate issues with the cast or complications from surgery that could jeopardize the limb’s health.
D. Turn the client so the cast will dry on all sides. Ensuring the cast dries properly is important to maintain its integrity and effectiveness, but this action is secondary to assessing neurovascular status to prevent serious complications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Sodium 142 mEq/L: This is within the normal range for sodium (135-145 mEq/L) and does not indicate a problem that needs immediate attention.
B. Urine specific gravity 1.025: This value is on the higher end of the normal range for urine specific gravity (1.010-1.030) and indicates concentration of urine, which can occur in mild dehydration. It is not critical but indicates the need for monitoring.
C. Potassium 2.5 mEq/L: This is below the normal range for potassium (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and indicates hypokalemia, which can cause serious cardiac issues and muscle weakness. It is a priority to correct this imbalance to prevent complications.
D. Blood glucose 110 mg/dL: This is within the normal range for blood glucose levels (70-110 mg/dL) for children and does not indicate an immediate concern related to dehydration.
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