The nurse includes the problem of "Risk for infection" in the plan of care for a client with myelosuppression. Which laboratory value of care provides the greatest support for this nursing problem?
Reference Range
Hemoglobin (Hgb) (14 to 18 g/dL (8.69 to 11.17 mmol/L] Hematocrit (Hct) [42% to 52% (0.42 to 0.52 volume fraction)]
Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) [4.2 to 5.4 x 10/μL (4.2 to 5.4 x 1012/L)] White Blood Cell (WBC) [5,000 to 10,000/mm3 (5 to 10 x 10"/L)]
Hematocrit of 33% (0.33 volume fraction).
White blood cell count of 1,500/mm3 (1.5 x 10°)
Hemoglobin of 10 g/dl (6.21 mmol/L)
Red blood cell count of 3.5 x 10l(3.5 x 10").
The Correct Answer is B
A. Hematocrit measures the proportion of blood volume that is occupied by red blood cells. A hematocrit of 33% is lower than the normal range (42% to 52% for males and 37% to 47% for females). While this indicates anemia and reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, it is not directly related to the risk for infection.
B. White blood cells (WBCs) are crucial for the immune system and fighting infections. A WBC count of 1,500/mm³ is significantly below the normal range (5,000 to 10,000/mm³). This low WBC count, also known as leukopenia, indicates a decreased ability to fight infections, making the client highly susceptible to infections.
C. Hemoglobin measures the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells. A hemoglobin level of 10 g/dL is below the normal range (14 to 18 g/dL), indicating anemia. While anemia affects overall health and can contribute to fatigue and weakness, it does not directly indicate the risk for infection.
D. The red blood cell (RBC) count measures the number of red blood cells in the blood. A count of 3.5 x 10^12/L is below the normal range (4.2 to 5.4 x 10^12/L), indicating a reduction in red blood cells and anemia. Like low hemoglobin, this value indicates anemia but does not directly reflect the risk for infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While neutrophils are involved in the immune response and wound healing, they are more indicative of an acute infection. An increased wound size suggests a worsening chronic condition rather than an acute infection.
B. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a sensitive marker of inflammation. An increase in CRP often accompanies worsening inflammation, such as an increase in wound size. Evaluating CRP levels would provide valuable information about the overall inflammatory state of the client.
C. Platelets are involved in blood clotting and wound healing, but they are not directly related to the overall inflammatory process or wound size.
D. These electrolytes are important for overall health, but they are not directly related to wound healing or inflammation.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. This is important to prevent injury but is not the priority at this time.
B. This is important for monitoring the seizure progression and for providing information to the healthcare provider. However, it should be done while simultaneously performing the more critical interventions of ventilation and oxygenation.
C. This is the highest priority as the client is experiencing respiratory failure with a respiratory rate of 4 breaths/minute. Providing artificial ventilation is crucial to oxygenate the patient.
D. This is not necessary at this point and may not be feasible during the emergency situation.
E. While not as immediate as BVM ventilation, increasing oxygen delivery is essential to improve oxygenation levels.
F. Begin chest compressions: Chest compressions are indicated for cardiac arrest, not respiratory failure.
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