The nurse is reviewing the laboratory test results of a pregnant client. Which finding would alert the nurse to the development of HELLP syndrome?
elevated liver enzymes
elevated platelet count
leukocytosis
hyperglycemia
The Correct Answer is A
A. Elevated liver enzymes is a key indicator of HELLP syndrome, which stands for Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelets. HELLP syndrome is a severe form of preeclampsia and can lead to liver damage. Elevated liver enzymes, such as AST and ALT, are a hallmark of this condition, indicating liver dysfunction.
B. Elevated platelet count would be the opposite of what is expected in HELLP syndrome. In HELLP syndrome, there is typically low platelet count (thrombocytopenia), not an elevated one.
C. Leukocytosis refers to an increased white blood cell count, which can be indicative of an infection or inflammation, but it is not a hallmark of HELLP syndrome. HELLP syndrome primarily involves hemolysis, liver enzyme elevation, and low platelets.
D. Hyperglycemia is not a characteristic finding of HELLP syndrome. While it can occur in some pregnancy-related conditions, it is not specifically associated with HELLP syndrome. This condition is more associated with elevated liver enzymes and low platelets.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. 8.4 mEq/L is above the therapeutic range and may indicate magnesium toxicity. Levels greater than 7.5–8 mEq/L can lead to loss of deep tendon reflexes, and higher levels can cause respiratory depression and cardiac arrest.
B. 6.1 mEq/L falls within the therapeutic range for magnesium sulfate when used to treat severe preeclampsia, which is generally 4.8–8.4 mEq/L (or 4–7 mEq/L depending on the source and unit of measurement). This level is considered safe and effective for preventing seizures.
C. 10.8 mEq/L is too high and indicates magnesium toxicity, placing the patient at risk for serious complications like respiratory or cardiac arrest.
D. 3.3 mEq/L is below the therapeutic range, suggesting that the dose may be inadequate to prevent eclamptic seizures in a woman with severe preeclampsia.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Cephalhematoma refers to a collection of blood between the baby's skull and the periosteum (the membrane covering the bone), which does not cross the suture lines. It typically occurs after a traumatic delivery, but it is not diffuse edema like caput succedaneum.
B. Molding refers to the shaping of the baby’s head to fit through the birth canal during delivery. It involves temporary changes to the skull bones (such as overlapping sutures) but does not involve edema or soft tissue swelling.
C. Microcephaly is a condition where a newborn's head is abnormally small, usually due to developmental issues, and it has nothing to do with edema or swelling of the soft tissues.
D. Caput succedaneum is the correct term for diffuse edema of the newborn’s scalp that crosses the suture lines. It is caused by the pressure during delivery as the baby's head moves through the birth canal, and it typically resolves within a few days after birth.
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