A nurse is reviewing the preadmission laboratory test results of a client who is scheduled for a carotid endarterectomy in 3 days. Which of the following results should the nurse report to the provider?
Chloride 105 mEq/L
Calcium 9.6 mEq/L
Sodium 151 mEq/L
Potassium 3.8 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Chloride 105 mEq/L is within the normal range (98–106 mEq/L) and does not require reporting.
B. Calcium 9.6 mEq/L is a normal calcium level (normal range: 8.5–10.5 mEq/L).
C. Sodium 151 mEq/L is above the normal sodium range (135–145 mEq/L) and indicates hypernatremia. This could affect neurological function and fluid balance, especially important to correct prior to surgery.
D. Potassium 3.8 mEq/L is within the normal range (3.5–5.0 mEq/L).
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Diabetes insipidus can lead to profound dehydration due to excessive fluid loss. A urine specific gravity of 1.002 indicates very dilute urine, supporting the concern. This child is at immediate risk for hypovolemic shock, so the nurse should assess them first.
B. A pulse oximetry of 95% is within acceptable range for a child with asthma, suggesting no acute distress at this time.
C. Roseola with a fever of 39°C is expected; while monitoring is needed, it's not the highest priority.
D. Pain of 6/10 in sickle cell anemia is concerning and requires attention, but it is not as emergent as potential fluid imbalance in diabetes insipidus.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Respiratory acidosis results from hypoventilation (respiratory rate of 6 breaths/min), leading to CO₂ retention and decreased blood pH. Cyanosis also indicates poor oxygenation, supporting this diagnosis.
B. Metabolic acidosis typically results from renal failure, diarrhea, or diabetic ketoacidosis, not directly from low respiratory rate.
C. Respiratory alkalosis is caused by hyperventilation, not hypoventilation.
D. Metabolic alkalosis is usually caused by vomiting or diuretic use and is not associated with decreased respiratory rate or cyanosis.
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