For a client with diabetes mellitus, which new lab finding is the greatest concern?

Potassium 5.0 mEq/L.

Creatinine 4.4 mg/dL.

Hemoglobin 10.7 g/dL.

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) 22 mg/dL.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A Reason
A potassium level of 5.0 mEq/L is at the upper limit of the normal range, which is typically between 3.5 and 5.0 mEq/L. While this level should be monitored, especially in the context of diabetes where the patient may be at risk for hyperkalemia due to potential kidney issues, it is not immediately alarming¹.

Choice B Reason
A creatinine level of 4.4 mg/dL is significantly higher than the normal range of 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL for males and 0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL for females. This indicates severe renal impairment or kidney failure, which is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus. Immediate intervention is required to address this critical issue¹.

Choice C Reason
A hemoglobin level of 10.7 g/dL is slightly below the normal range for adults, which is generally 13.8 to 17.2 g/dL for males and 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL for females. This could indicate mild anemia, which can be a complication of diabetes but is not as immediately concerning as a high creatinine level¹.

Choice D Reason
A Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) level of 22 mg/dL is within the normal range, which is typically between 7 and 20 mg/dL. This level does not indicate immediate concern and is not as critical as the elevated creatinine level¹.

Nursing Test Bank

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A Reason
Applying cool compresses to the affected limb can help reduce swelling and provide pain relief. However, it's important to follow the surgeon's specific postoperative orders, as the application of cold can vary depending on the surgical technique and patient's condition.

Choice B Reason
Placing a soft pillow under the knee is not recommended after total knee replacement surgery. This position can lead to decreased range of motion and contractures. The knee should be kept in a more extended position to promote healing and mobility.

Choice C Reason
Promoting bedrest for an extended period is not typically advised following knee replacement surgery. Early mobilization is important to prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis and to encourage circulation and healing. The duration of bedrest should be as per the surgeon's protocol.

Choice D Reason
Encouraging increased fluid intake is important after surgery to prevent dehydration, promote kidney function, and ensure adequate blood volume and circulation. Proper hydration is essential for healing and can help with the metabolism of medications used during and after surgery.

A. Avoid crossing the legs while sitting. B. Eliminate Vitamin K from the diet. C. Follow a home exercise program. D. Use a raised toilet seat. E. Increase high-impact activities.

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

Choice a reason:
Avoiding crossing the legs while sitting is crucial after a total hip replacement to prevent dislocation of the new joint. Crossing the legs can put undue pressure on the hip joint and may lead to misalignment or increased strain during the healing process.

Choice b reason:
Eliminating Vitamin K from the diet is not typically recommended after a total hip replacement. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting, and maintaining a consistent intake is important, especially if the client is on anticoagulant therapy to prevent deep vein thrombosis. Sudden changes in Vitamin K intake can affect the efficacy of anticoagulants like warfarin.

Choice c reason:
Following a home exercise program is an essential part of recovery after a total hip replacement. Exercises help strengthen the muscles around the new joint, improve flexibility, and increase range of motion. It's important that these exercises are done regularly and as instructed by a physical therapist.

Choice d reason:
Using a raised toilet seat after hip replacement surgery helps to prevent excessive flexion at the hip, which can risk dislocating the new joint. It also makes it easier for the client to sit down and stand up with less strain on the hip.

Choice e reason:
Increasing high-impact activities is not recommended after a total hip replacement, especially in the early stages of recovery. High-impact activities can put excessive stress on the new joint and may lead to complications. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling are generally more appropriate.

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For a client with diabetes mellitus, which new lab finding is the greatest concern?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Eight hours postoperative following a total knee replacement, which intervention should the nurse implement for the client?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client after a total hip replacement. The teaching should include instructions to:

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

The nurse is reviewing the laboratory findings for a 34-year-old woman who is scheduled for a Schilling's test for B12 deficiency anemia. Which result should the nurse report immediately to the primary care provider?

The nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client newly diagnosed with hypertension. Which food item(s) should the nurse instruct the client to avoid in order to assist In controlling the blood pressure? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)

A client diagnosed with schizophrenia functions well during hospitalization but decompensates after discharge. What does the therapeutic milieu provide that may be missing in the home environment?

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What instruction for oral administration of methotrexate should the nurse include when teaching a client diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis?

What environmental changes should the nurse make for a client who is experiencing perceptual alterations?

A client is diagnosed with a large bowel obstruction. Which assessment findings by the nurse would be expected?