Before administering an antibiotic that can cause nephrotoxicity, which laboratory value is most important for the practical nurse (PN) to review?
Serum calcium
Serum creatinine
Hemoglobin and Hematocrit
White blood cell count (WBC)
The Correct Answer is B
Serum creatinine is the most important laboratory value to review before administering an antibiotic that can cause nephrotoxicity. Nephrotoxicity is an alteration in the function of the kidney due to exposure to certain drugs or toxins.
It can be assessed by measuring the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which is the rate of clearance of a substance from the blood by the kidneys. Serum creatinine is a waste product of muscle metabolism that is freely filtered by the glomeruli and not reabsorbed or secreted by the tubules.
Therefore, it is a reliable indicator of GFR and renal function. An increase in serum creatinine indicates a decrease in GFR and renal function, which may be caused by nephrotoxic drugs.
The other laboratory values are not directly related to nephrotoxicity or GFR:
- Serum calcium: This may be affected by renal function, but it is not a sensitive or specific marker of nephrotoxicity. It may be altered by other factors such as vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, and bone metabolism.
- Hemoglobin and hematocrit: These may be affected by renal function, but they are not sensitive or specific markers of nephrotoxicity. They may reflect the erythropoietin production by the kidneys, which stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow. However, they may also be influenced by other factors such as blood loss, hydration status, and iron deficiency.
- White blood cell count (WBC): This is not related to nephrotoxicity or GFR. It may reflect the presence of infection or inflammation, which may be a cause or a consequence of renal impairment, but it is not a direct measure of renal function.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Taking out dentures and placing them in a labeled cup (Choice A) is a necessary step to ensure the comfort and dignity of the deceased. It helps maintain the appearance and respect for the deceased person.
Choice B rationale:
Gently closing the eyes (Choice B) is a common practice to provide a more peaceful and natural appearance to the deceased. It also prevents the eyes from remaining partially open, which can be distressing for family members.
Choice C rationale:
Placing a small pillow under the head (Choice C) is done to maintain the natural alignment of the head and neck. This helps create a more lifelike appearance and enhances the comfort of the deceased.
Choice E rationale:
Removing resuscitation equipment from the room (Choice E) is essential for maintaining the dignity of the deceased and creating a more peaceful environment for the family. It also helps prevent any distressing reminders of the resuscitation attempt.
Choice D rationale:
Apply a body shroud (Choice D) is not a common practice in preparing the body for viewing by the family. The use of a body shroud may vary based on cultural or religious preferences, but it is not a standard procedure in many healthcare settings.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Tell me about your coping strategies and support system." This is an appropriate statement during the assessment of a client with panic disorder. Understanding the client's coping mechanisms and support system can help the nurse tailor the care plan to the client's specific needs and strengths.
Choice B rationale:
"How often do you experience panic attacks and what triggers them?" While this question may be relevant, it focuses primarily on the frequency and triggers of panic attacks. While this information is important, it doesn't address coping strategies or support systems, which are equally important aspects of the assessment.
Choice C rationale:
"What medications are you currently taking for your panic disorder?" This question is essential for medication management but does not directly address coping strategies or support systems, which are more pertinent to the assessment in this context.
Choice D rationale:
"Have you ever had any laboratory tests done for your panic disorder?" This question is not relevant to the assessment of panic disorder. Panic disorder is primarily diagnosed based on clinical criteria and does not require specific laboratory tests.
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