The practical nurse (PN) is caring for an older client who is receiving chemotherapy for lung cancer. Which finding is the highest priority for the PN to report to the charge nurse?
Reference ranges:
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): [Adult: 10 to 20 mg/dL or 3.6 to 7.1 mmol/L] Platelets: [150,000 to 400,000/mm3 or 150 to 400 x 10^9/L]
Periodic nausea and vomiting.
Decreased deep tendon reflexes.
Platelet count 135,000/mm3 or 135 x 10^9/L
Blood urea nitrogen 75 mg/dL or 12.9 mmol/L
The Correct Answer is D
A high blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level indicates impaired renal function, which can be caused by dehydration, infection, or nephrotoxic drugs. Chemotherapy can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of renal failure. The PN should report this finding to the charge nurse, as it may require fluid replacement, dose adjustment, or discontinuation of the chemotherapy.
The other options are not correct because:
A. Periodic nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy that can be managed with antiemetics, hydration, and dietary modifications. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
B. Decreased deep tendon reflexes may indicate hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, or peripheral neuropathy, which can be caused by chemotherapy or other factors. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
C. A platelet count of 135,000/mm3 or 135 x 10^9/L is slightly below the normal range, but not significantly low. Chemotherapy can cause thrombocytopenia, which increases the risk of bleeding. The PN should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, but this finding is not as urgent as a high BUN level.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice B rationale:
The semi-Fowler's position involves elevating the head of the bed to 30-45 degrees, which is useful for clients with respiratory issues to promote lung expansion. However, for auscultation of the posterior lung fields in a client with left lower lobe pneumonia, the lateral, semi-prone position is more appropriate as it allows better access to the specific area of concern.
Choice C rationale:
Placing the client on the right side-lying position may not be as effective for auscultating the left lower lobe, as the target area is located on the opposite side. The lateral, semi-prone position offers better access to the left lower lobe for assessment.
Choice D rationale:
The forward orthopneic position is a sitting position with the arms supported on a table or over the bed. While this position can assist clients with breathing difficulties, it is not suitable for auscultation of the posterior lung fields. The lateral, semi-prone position is moreappropriate for this purpose.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B. Attach the drainage bag to the bed frame.
Choice A rationale:
Measuring the urinary output in the bag is a routine task but does not address the improper placement of the drainage bag. The immediate concern is to ensure the drainage bag is correctly positioned to prevent complications.
Choice B rationale:
Attaching the drainage bag to the bed frame is the correct action. The drainage bag should be kept below the level of the bladder and attached to a non-movable part of the bed to prevent backflow and reduce the risk of infection.
Choice C rationale:
Applying gloves and emptying the drainage bag is not the immediate priority. The drainage bag should not be allowed to overfill, but in this scenario, it is only half-full, so this action is not urgent.
Choice D rationale:
Removing the looped tubing from the bed is important to ensure proper drainage and prevent backflow, but it does not address the incorrect placement of the drainage bag, which is the primary concern in this situation.
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