A patient with a full-thickness burn covering 40% of their body is exhibiting purulent drainage at the wound site. Before reporting this finding to the healthcare provider, which of the patient’s laboratory values should the nurse review?
Blood pH level
Hematocrit
White blood cell (WBC) count
Platelet count
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Blood pH level is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the blood. While it’s an important measure in many medical situations, it’s not directly related to the presence of purulent drainage at a burn wound site.
Choice B rationale
Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood and is not directly related to the presence of purulent drainage at a burn wound site. Elevated hematocrit may indicate dehydration or hemoconcentration but does not specifically address the issue of wound infection.
Choice C rationale
The White Blood Cell (WBC) count is a key indicator of infection or inflammation in the body. An elevated WBC count can indicate an infection, which could be the cause of the purulent drainage observed at the burn wound site.
Choice D rationale
Platelet count is a measure of the number of platelets in the blood. Platelets are involved in clotting and wound healing, but they do not directly indicate the presence of an infection that could cause purulent drainage.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
As with, a lumbar puncture is the primary diagnostic procedure for suspected bacterial meningitis. The other choices, while useful for detecting other conditions, are not as definitive for diagnosing bacterial meningitis.
Choice B rationale
As mentioned in the rationale for, Choice B, skull radiography is not typically used to diagnose bacterial meningitis.
Choice C rationale
As mentioned in the rationale for, Choice C, an MRI can provide detailed images of the brain and surrounding tissues, but it is not the primary tool for diagnosing bacterial meningitis.
Choice D rationale
As mentioned in the rationale for, Choice D, a CT scan can detect abnormalities in the brain, but it cannot definitively diagnose bacterial meningitis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Latent hepatitis C is not a contraindication for peritoneal dialysis. While it may require additional monitoring and treatment, it does not prevent a patient from receiving peritoneal dialysis.
Choice B rationale
Crohn’s disease with colectomy is a contraindication for peritoneal dialysis. The presence of extensive adhesions and fibrosis from the surgery can make the peritoneum unsuitable for dialysis.
Choice C rationale
A history of nephrotic syndrome is not a contraindication for peritoneal dialysis. Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder, and peritoneal dialysis can be used as a treatment for patients with kidney disease.
Choice D rationale
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is not a contraindication for peritoneal dialysis. Many patients with diabetes undergo peritoneal dialysis. However, careful monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary, as the dialysis solution used in peritoneal dialysis contains glucose.
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