The nurse reviews a client's laboratory results for a client admitted with gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding who has no visible hemorrhoids on inspection of the anal area. Which laboratory test indicates that the client's bleeding is not yet resolved?

Reference Range:

Hematocrit (Hct) [42% to 52% (0.42 to 0.52 volume fraction)]

Prothrombin time (PT) [11.0 to 12.5 seconds (85%-100%)] Glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C) [4% to 5.9%]

Hematocrit changes from 36% to 32%.

Hemoglobin A1C changes from 10% to 8%.

Prothrombin time (PT) changes from 12 seconds to 18 seconds.

Guaiac test changes from positive to negative.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A.   A decrease in hematocrit from 36% to 32% suggests ongoing blood loss and that the client’s GI bleeding has not yet resolved. Hematocrit is a key indicator of the client’s blood volume and oxygen- carrying capacity.
B.   Hemoglobin A1C reflects long-term blood sugar control, not current blood loss. A change in A1C is not indicative of GI bleeding resolution.
C.   An increase in prothrombin time (PT) from 12 to 18 seconds indicates clotting abnormalities, which may occur with liver dysfunction or anticoagulant therapy, but it doesn't directly relate to GI bleeding resolution.
D.   A positive to negative change in the guaiac test (fecal occult blood test) would indicate that the blood in the stool is no longer present, suggesting resolution of bleeding, which doesn’t match the question’s context.

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Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E","F","G"]

Explanation

A. Brudzinski reflexes test is primarily used to assess for meningeal irritation, which is not directly related to stroke.
B. Muscle tone assessments help to identify abnormalities in motor function, which could indicate neurological damage. Given the patient’s history and the recent fall, muscle tone should be checked for any signs of weakness or spasticity.
C. This test evaluates the client’s balance and proprioception. It is a quick way to check for potential issues with the nervous system, such as ataxia or other motor impairments, which could be present in a client with a stroke.
D. Assessing the level of consciousness is critical in a neurological assessment to ensure that the client is oriented and alert, which is especially important after a fall or stroke-like symptoms.
E. Pupillary response is an essential part of a neurological exam. Checking the size and reactivity of the pupils helps to assess brainstem function and overall neurological health.
F. Cranial nerve function should be assessed to evaluate for signs of neurological deficits. In stroke patients, cranial nerve impairments can provide important diagnostic information.
G. The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a standard tool for assessing the level of consciousness and neurological status. It can provide valuable insights into the severity of a neurological condition, especially in post-fall or post-stroke patients.

A. Observe for any facial asymmetry. B. Determine the response to stimuli. C. Assess for a positive Romberg sign. D. Check the pupillary response to light.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Facial asymmetry may indicate neurological issues, but it does not directly assess the stuporous state.
B. A stuporous state is characterized by a reduced level of consciousness, and the nurse should assess
the client’s response to stimuli to confirm the report of stupor.
C. A positive Romberg sign indicates a balance issue, but it is not directly related to confirming a stuporous state.
D. While pupillary response is important, it does not provide sufficient information to confirm a stuporous state without assessing responsiveness to stimuli.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Patient Data Exhibits The nurse is admitting the client to the stroke unit and preparing to complete a focused neurological assessment. Which assessment(s) should the nurse conduct? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E","F","G"]

Explanation

The nurse learns in report that a client is stuporous. Which assessment should the nurse perform to confirm this report?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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