The nurse is reviewing serum laboratory values for a client who is scheduled for surgery tomorrow. Which value requires the nurse to promptly notify the surgeon?
Serum glucose of 118 mg/dL
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) of 16 mg/dL
Serum sodium of 130 mEq/L
Serum potassium of 3.9 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is C
A. Serum glucose of 118 mg/dL: This value is slightly above the normal range but not critically elevated; it does not typically require immediate notification to the surgeon.
B. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) of 16 mg/dL: This BUN level is within the normal range and does not suggest an immediate concern for surgical risk.
C. Serum sodium of 130 mEq/L: A serum sodium level of 130 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia, which can lead to serious complications including neurological symptoms and should be addressed prior to surgery.
D. Serum potassium of 3.9 mEq/L: This level is within the normal range and does not require immediate action related to surgery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
A. The client who takes medications for occasional anxiety: Anxiety medications are not typically associated with metabolic acidosis.
B. The client admitted with a mild pleural effusion: A mild pleural effusion is more related to fluid accumulation and respiratory issues rather than metabolic acidosis.
C. The client who has had diarrhea for the past 48 hours: Prolonged diarrhea can lead to loss of bicarbonate, resulting in metabolic acidosis.
D. The client admitted with an acute renal injury: Acute renal injury impairs the kidneys' ability to excrete acids and can lead to metabolic acidosis.
E. The client admitted for treatment of asthmatic bronchitis: Asthmatic bronchitis typically involves respiratory issues rather than metabolic acidosis.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Record intake and output: This task is within the UAP's scope of practice as it involves documenting fluid balance.
B. Assess bowel sounds: This task requires clinical judgment and assessment skills and should be performed by a licensed nurse.
C. Obtain routine vital signs: This is appropriate for the UAP to perform, as it involves routine measurements that do not require clinical assessment.
D. Document the presence of edema: The UAP can document observable findings such as edema, which is within their scope of practice.
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