After reviewing the morning laboratory findings for four clients, which client should the nurse follow up with first? Reference Range:
International Normalized Ratio [0.8 to 1.1]
Blood Glucose 74 to 106 mg/dL (4.1 to 5.9 mmol/L)]
Potassium [3.5 to 5 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mmol/L)]
Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) [less than 100 pg/mL (less than 100 ng/L)]
The brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) assay for a client with shortness of breath after a myocardial infarction (MI) increases to 1000 pg/mL (1000 ng/L).
The international normalized ratio (INR) for a client who is receiving warfarin therapy increases to 2.5.
The serum glucose level for a client receiving corticosteroids increases to 150 mg/dL (8.3 mmol/L).
The potassium level for a client scheduled for renal dialysis increases to 5 mEq/L(5 mmol/L).
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason: This client has a very high BNP level, which indicates severe heart failure and fluid overload. The nurse should follow up with this client first, as they may need urgent interventions such as oxygen therapy, diuretics, and vasodilators.
Choice B Reason: This client has an INR within the therapeutic range for warfarin therapy, which is usually between 2 and 3. The nurse should monitor this client for signs of bleeding or clotting, but they do not require immediate follow-up.
Choice C Reason: This client has a mildly elevated glucose level, which may be caused by the corticosteroids that
increase blood sugar. The nurse should check the client's blood glucose regularly and administer insulin as ordered, but they do not require immediate follow-up.
Choice D Reason: This client has a normal potassium level, which is within the reference range of 3.5 to 5 mEq/L. The nurse should ensure that the client is ready for dialysis and avoid foods high in potassium, but they do not require immediate follow-up.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Influenza is transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets. Droplet precautions require healthcare workers to wear a mask (surgical mask) when in close contact with a client. The UAP is already wearing gloves and a gown, which are appropriate for contact precautions but incomplete without a face mask for droplet protection.
Choice B Reason: A fitted respirator (e.g., N95) is unnecessary unless the client is suspected or confirmed to have an airborne transmissible disease such as tuberculosis. Influenza does not require airborne precautions.
Choice C Reason: Assigning the UAP to provide care for another client and assuming full care of the client is not necessary or feasible because it would increase the workload of the nurse and reduce the quality of care for both clients. The UAP can still assist with care for clients with influenza as long as they follow proper infection control measures.
Choice D Reason: Instructing the UAP to notify the nurse of any changes in the client's respiratory status is important but not a priority action because it does not address the issue of preventing transmission of influenza. The nurse should first ensure that the UAP wears appropriate personal protective equipment before entering the client's room.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This action is not the best because it does not directly evaluate the PN's wound care skills in practice. A skill checklist may not reflect the current or actual abilities of the PN, especially if it is outdated or based on self-
reporting. The charge nurse should observe the PN's performance in person to ensure that she follows the proper procedures and protocols for sterile wound care.
B) This action is the best because it allows the charge nurse to verify the PN's wound care skills and provide feedback or guidance if needed. The charge nurse has a responsibility to ensure that the PN delivers safe and effective care to the clients on the unit. By watching the PN perform sterile wound care, the charge nurse can assess her competence, confidence, and compliance with standards of practice.
C) This action is not the best because it is disrespectful and discouraging to the PN. The charge nurse should not dismiss or undermine the PN's past experience, which may have contributed to her wound care skills. The charge nurse should acknowledge and appreciate the PN's expertise, but also verify her skill level through direct
observation.
D) This action is not the best because it exposes the client to potential harm and liability. The charge nurse should not delegate a task that requires assessment and evaluation to a PN without first confirming her skill level and competency. The charge nurse should also not ask the PN to perform a task while she is busy with other duties, as this may compromise the quality and safety of care.
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