The nurse is reviewing lab data of a Stage 4 breast cancer patient. Which lab data may indicate further metastasis?
Sodium 138 milliequivalents per liter
Hemoglobin 10.5 grams per deciliter
Potassium 3.4 milliequivalents per liter
Calcium 12.5 milligrams per deciliter
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: A sodium level of 138 milliequivalents per liter is within the normal range and does not indicate metastasis.
Choice B reason: A hemoglobin level of 10.5 grams per deciliter is slightly low but does not specifically indicate metastasis.
Choice C reason: A potassium level of 3.4 milliequivalents per liter is within the normal range and does not indicate metastasis.
Choice D reason: A calcium level of 12.5 milligrams per deciliter is elevated, which may indicate metastasis to the bones, a common site for breast cancer metastasis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: A positive pregnancy test is a significant concern for a patient preparing for surgery as it can affect the type of anesthesia used and the surgical approach, due to the potential impact on the fetus.
Choice B reason: While a family history of hypertension is important, it is not as immediately concerning as a positive pregnancy test in a patient preparing for surgery.
Choice C reason: A signed advance directive is a document that outlines a patient's wishes regarding medical treatment and is not a concern but rather a part of preoperative preparation.
Choice D reason: A medical history of diabetes is important to consider in surgical patients due to potential complications with wound healing and blood glucose control, but it is not as urgent as confirming pregnancy status before surgery.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Petechiae are small red or purple spots caused by bleeding into the skin, typically not directly associated with anemia.
Choice B reason: Glossitis, which is inflammation of the tongue, can be associated with certain types of anemia but is not specifically related to the low hemoglobin level itself.
Choice C reason: Exertional dyspnea, or difficulty breathing upon exertion, is a common symptom of severe anemia due to the reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
Choice D reason: Palpitations, or feeling that the heart is racing or fluttering, can occur in severe anemia as the heart attempts to compensate for the lack of oxygen in the blood.
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