The nurse is caring for a patient with pneumonia. Which lab abnormality is most concerning?
decreased serum creatinine
elevated white blood cell count
protein in urinalysis
decreased serum potassium
The Correct Answer is B
B. An elevated white blood cell (WBC) count, specifically an elevation in the neutrophil count (neutrophilia), is commonly seen in pneumonia. It indicates an inflammatory response to the infection and is a typical finding in bacterial pneumonia.
A. A decreased serum creatinine level is not typically associated with pneumonia and may not be directly related to the condition. In fact, it may suggest impaired kidney function or dehydration, but it is not a concerning lab abnormality specifically related to pneumonia.
C. Protein in the urine (proteinuria) may be present in various conditions, including kidney disease, urinary tract infections, and certain systemic illnesses. While it can sometimes be seen in severe cases of pneumonia, it is not a specific or common finding associated with the condition.
D. Decreased serum potassium levels are not typically associated with pneumonia itself. However, certain factors related to pneumonia treatment or complications, such as the use of diuretics or vomiting, could lead to hypokalemia. While hypokalemia can have serious consequences, it is not directly related to the severity of pneumonia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Raisins are a source of carbohydrates, particularly simple sugars like glucose and fructose, which can quickly raise blood sugar levels during an episode of hypoglycemia. However, they do not contain protein, which can help sustain blood sugar levels over time. Raisins may provide a rapid increase in blood sugar but may not be as effective at preventing subsequent episodes of hypoglycemia.
A. Cheese is a source of protein and contains very little carbohydrate. While protein can help stabilize blood sugar levels, it may not provide a rapid increase in blood sugar during an episode of hypoglycemia. Cheese alone may not be the most effective choice for treating low blood sugar promptly.
B. Beef jerky is primarily a source of protein and may not contain enough carbohydrates to quickly raise blood sugar levels during an episode of hypoglycemia. While protein can help stabilize blood sugar over time, it may not provide the rapid increase in blood sugar needed to address acute hypoglycemia.
D. Chocolate, especially dark chocolate with a high cocoa content, contains carbohydrates in the form of sugar and fat. While it can quickly raise blood sugar levels due to its sugar content, it may not provide sustained energy due to its low protein content.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Beta cells are the pancreatic cells responsible for secreting insulin. Insulin acts to lower blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells for energy or storage. In individuals with diabetes mellitus, dysfunction of beta cells can lead to inadequate insulin secretion, resulting in high blood sugar levels.
A. Alpha cells are another type of cell in the pancreas, but they secrete glucagon, not insulin. Glucagon has the opposite effect of insulin, increasing blood sugar levels by stimulating the breakdown of glycogen in the liver.
C. Acinar cells are exocrine cells found in the pancreas that secrete digestive enzymes into the pancreatic ducts. These enzymes aid in the digestion of food in the small intestine. Acinar cells are not involved in the production of insulin.
D. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that produces antibodies as part of the immune response. They are not involved in the production of insulin.
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