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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. "Maybe you are more depressed than you realize. Would you like to talk about it?": This response may dismiss the client's concerns and assumes depression without explaining the rationale for the medication.
B. "Depression is often a factor in pain. Treating the depression helps treat the pain.": While this may be true, it might not address the specific rationale for the antidepressant in managing nerve pain.
C. "Why don't you try it for a while, and if you don't feel better, you can ask your doctor if you can stop it?": This response lacks an explanation and may not address the client’s concerns about why the medication was prescribed.
D. "Antidepressants are sometimes used to manage the type of nerve pain you are experiencing.": This is the correct choice. It directly addresses the use of antidepressants for managing neuropathic pain, which can be effective even in the absence of depression.

A. Capillary refill and depth of peripheral edema B. Abdominal sounds and obtain a BNP level C. Neurological status and obtain electrolyte levels D. Skin turgor and measure intake & output (I&O)

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Capillary refill and depth of peripheral edema: While these assessments are important for evaluating peripheral circulation and fluid status, they are not as immediately critical given the client's new onset of confusion and respiratory symptoms.
B. Abdominal sounds and obtain a BNP level: Assessing abdominal sounds and BNP (B-type natriuretic peptide) levels is useful for diagnosing heart failure exacerbations but is secondary to addressing the client's acute confusion and potential electrolyte imbalances.
C. Neurological status and obtain electrolyte levels: This is the correct choice. New onset confusion can be indicative of electrolyte imbalances or acute exacerbations related to heart failure. Monitoring neurological status and electrolyte levels is crucial to address potential causes of confusion and ensure proper treatment.
D. Skin turgor and measure intake & output (I&O): While skin turgor and I&O are relevant for assessing fluid status, the priority should be addressing the acute change in mental status and potential underlying causes such as electrolyte imbalances.

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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?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with peripheral neuropathy states, "I don't know why the doctor put me on an antidepressant. I am not depressed!" Which response by the nurse is best?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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