The nurse is assessing the client following the transfusion of 2 units of packed RBCs.
Click to highlight the findings that indicate improvement in the client's condition. To deselect a finding, click on the finding again.
Laboratory Results
1800:
WBC count 6,700/mm3 (5,000 to 10,000/mm3)
Hemoglobin 12 g/dL (14 to 18 g/dL)
Hematocrit 36% (40% to 52%)
Vital Signs
1800:
Blood pressure 112/74 mm Hg
Heart rate 95/min
Respiratory rate 18/min
Temperature 37.5°C (99.5° F)
Oxygen saturation 100% via 2 L/min nasal cannula
Assessment
1800:
Physical Exam:
General: no distress
HEENT: oropharynx clear, mucous membranes moist and pink
Respiratory: bilateral breath sounds clear
Gl: epigastric tenderness to palpation, no rebound tenderness or guarding Neuro: awake and alert
Hemoglobin 12 g/dL (14 to 18 g/dL)
Hematocrit 36% (40% to 52%)
Blood pressure 112/74 mm Hg
Heart rate 95/min
Oxygen saturation 100% via 2 L/min nasal cannula
no distress
oropharynx clear, mucous membranes moist and pink
The Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E","F","G"]
Rationale
Findings Indicating Improvement Laboratory Results:
Hemoglobin 12 g/dL (Normal range: 14 to 18 g/dL)
Although the hemoglobin level is still slightly below the normal range (it was 9.1 g/dL prior to the transfusion), it has increased from 9.1 g/dL to 12 g/dL, showing improvement after the blood transfusion. This indicates that the transfusion has helped to raise the hemoglobin level, improving oxygen-carrying capacity.
Hematocrit 36% (Normal range: 40% to 52%)
The hematocrit level has also increased from 27% to 36%. While still below normal, this is an improvement, suggesting the transfusion is starting to correct the client’s anemia and restore normal blood volume.
Vital Signs:
Blood Pressure 112/74 mm Hg
The blood pressure has improved significantly from 76/45 mm Hg (at 1200) and 78/49 mm Hg (at 1230). An increase in blood pressure to 112/74 mm Hg indicates the client is now hemodynamically stable, and the transfusion has helped to address the hypotension. The blood pressure is now in a normal range (typically around 120/80 mm Hg), and it is no longer dangerously low.
Heart Rate 95/min
The heart rate has decreased from 118/min and 121/min (at earlier times) to 95/min. This drop
indicates that the client’s heart is not having to work as hard to compensate for the low blood volume,
suggesting improvement in circulatory status.
Oxygen Saturation 100% via 2 L/min nasal cannula
Oxygen saturation is now normal at 100%. This is an improvement compared to the previous status of 98% on room air, which indicates that the client is now receiving adequate oxygenation, and the supplemental oxygen may be effectively maintaining oxygen levels.
Physical Exam:
General: No distress
The client is no longer in apparent distress, which is an important sign of improvement. Prior to the transfusion, the client was described as diaphoretic and uncomfortable, but now the client is stable and not in distress.
HEENT: Oropharynx clear, mucous membranes moist and pink
The mucous membranes are now moist and pink, which suggests adequate hydration and oxygenation. This is an improvement, as the previous finding indicated the client’s mucous membranes were pale (which can be a sign of anemia or dehydration).
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While donepezil can improve cognitive function, it does not directly enhance mood.
B. Donepezil is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that works to improve cognitive function, particularly memory. Improved short-term memory is a good indication of its effectiveness.
C. Donepezil may improve cognitive abilities, but it does not guarantee the ability to independently perform activities of daily living (ADLs).
D. Increased food intake is not a direct effect of donepezil; however, it might occur indirectly as cognitive improvement leads to better self-care.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","G"]
Explanation
A. Restrict the client's sodium intake
One of the common complications of cirrhosis and liver disease is ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen), and hyponatremia (low sodium) may develop due to the body's altered fluid balance. Sodium restriction is a key part of managing ascites and preventing further fluid buildup.
B. Provide frequent rest periods for the client
Fatigue and weakness are common symptoms of liver disease and cirrhosis. The client is likely experiencing decreased energy levels due to liver dysfunction, so it is important to provide frequent rest periods to help prevent further fatigue and promote overall well-being.
C. Assess the client's level of orientation
Disorientation to time and changes in mental status are common in clients with liver disease, particularly due to the development of hepatic encephalopathy, a condition where toxins (like ammonia) accumulate in the blood and affect brain function.
D. Instruct the client to avoid blowing their nose forcefully
This action is typically suggested for clients at risk for bleeding (e.g., those with low platelet counts or clotting disorders). Although the client does have thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), there is no evidence in the provided data that the client is at immediate risk for epistaxis (nosebleeds).
E. Place the client on a low-carbohydrate diet
Clients with liver disease typically benefit from a high-calorie, high-protein diet to support healing and provide energy. A low-carbohydrate diet is not indicated unless there are other factors like diabetes or fatty liver disease, which is not suggested by the information provided.
F. Place the client under contact isolation
Contact isolation is generally used to prevent the spread of infectious diseases that are transmitted through direct contact with the patient or their environment (e.g., MRSA, C. difficile). There is no
indication that this client has a contagious infection that would require isolation. The client’s symptoms are more indicative of liver disease and complications of cirrhosis, rather than an infectious condition that would require isolation.
G. Advise the client to avoid the use of soap and alcohol-based lotions
Clients with liver disease often experience dry skin and pruritus (itching), which can be aggravated by harsh soaps and alcohol-based lotions. The yellowing of the sclera (jaundice) and itching (pruritus) are symptoms commonly seen in liver dysfunction, and using gentle skin care products without harsh chemicals will help minimize irritation and soothe the skin.
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