A nurse is reviewing the plan of care for a client who has systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The client reports fatigue, joint tenderness, swelling, and difficulty urinating. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse anticipate? (Select all that apply)
Positive ANA titer
2+ urine protein
Increased hemoglobin
Increased serum T3 and T4
Elevated BUN
Correct Answer : A,B,E
A. A positive antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer is a common finding in SLE. This test is often used as a screening tool for autoimmune diseases, and most patients with SLE will have a positive ANA. Therefore, this finding is expected.
B. The presence of protein in the urine (proteinuria) is indicative of kidney involvement, which can occur in SLE due to lupus nephritis. Given the client's difficulty urinating and other symptoms, this finding would be anticipated.
C. This statement is unlikely to be correct. In SLE, anemia is common due to various factors, including chronic disease, bone marrow involvement, or hemolysis. Therefore, an increased hemoglobin level would not be expected in this scenario.
D. This finding is not typically associated with SLE. SLE is primarily an autoimmune disease affecting the connective tissues, and thyroid function tests (like T3 and T4) would not show increased levels unless there is an underlying thyroid disorder. Therefore, this finding is not expected in SLE.
E. An elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level may be anticipated, especially if there is kidney involvement due to lupus nephritis. Increased BUN can indicate impaired kidney function, which aligns with the client's symptoms of difficulty urinating.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
A. Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVC's) (A) are related to cardiac activity and not directly indicative of respiratory function.
B. A respiratory rate of 14 breaths per minute is within the normal range for adults (12-20 breaths per minute). Therefore, this finding does not indicate a decline in respiratory status.
C. Circumoral cyanosis, which refers to a bluish discoloration around the mouth, indicates hypoxia and is a sign of deteriorating respiratory status. It suggests that the body is not getting enough oxygen, which is critical to monitor in an asthma attack.
D. Retractions, especially of the sternal muscles, are a sign of increased work of breathing and can indicate severe respiratory distress. This finding suggests that the patient is struggling to breathe effectively, indicating a decline in respiratory status.
E. An SpO2 of 95% is generally considered acceptable, especially in patients with asthma, as normal oxygen saturation levels typically range from 95% to 100%. While it is at the lower end of normal, it does not indicate an immediate decline in respiratory status.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While rinsing fruits is good practice, it may not fully eliminate the risk of pathogens, especially for someone with a compromised immune system.
B. This statement is the best indication of understanding how to prevent infections. Changing kitty litter can expose the client to Toxoplasma gondii, which is particularly risky for immunocompromised individuals. Wearing gloves is a direct and effective precaution.
C. Although wearing an N95 mask can be appropriate in certain situations, it may not be necessary for all interactions with sick family members. A standard surgical mask is often sufficient.
D. Cooking vegetables is a good practice for food safety, especially for immunocompromised individuals, but this statement is more general than specifically addressing a particular risk.
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