Which laboratory result of a preoperative client should the nurse report to the surgeon’s office, knowing that it could cause surgery to be postponed?
Hemoglobin, 8.0 g/dL
Serum creatinine, 0.8 mg/dL
Platelets, 210,000/mm³
Sodium, 144 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Hemoglobin, 8.0 g/dL: Hemoglobin is a critical component of red blood cells, responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Normal hemoglobin levels typically range from 13.8 to 17.2 g/dL for men and 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL for women1. A level of 8.0 g/dL is significantly below the normal range, indicating anemia. Severe anemia can increase the risk of perioperative complications, including poor wound healing, increased risk of infection, and cardiovascular stress. Therefore, this result should be reported to the surgeon as it may necessitate postponing the surgery until the anemia is addressed.
Choice B reason:
Serum creatinine, 0.8 mg/dL: Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscles and filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. Normal serum creatinine levels range from 0.74 to 1.35 mg/dL for men and 0.59 to 1.04 mg/dL for women. A level of 0.8 mg/dL falls within the normal range, indicating normal kidney function. Therefore, this result would not typically cause surgery to be postponed.
Choice C reason:
Platelets, 210,000/mm³: Platelets are essential for blood clotting. Normal platelet counts range from 150,000 to 400,000/mm³. A count of 210,000/mm³ is within the normal range, indicating adequate clotting ability. Thus, this result would not be a reason to postpone surgery.
Choice D reason:
Sodium, 144 mEq/L: Sodium is an essential electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. Normal sodium levels range from 135 to 145 mEq/L. A level of 144 mEq/L is within the normal range, indicating normal electrolyte balance. Therefore, this result would not typically cause surgery to be postponed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Administering inhaler medications and increasing oxygen may be necessary if the client is experiencing respiratory distress. However, since the client is not currently reporting increased dyspnea, this intervention is not immediately required. The focus should be on addressing the client’s anxiety.
Choice B reason:
Notifying the physician and administering lorazepam may be appropriate if the client’s anxiety is severe and not manageable through non-pharmacological means. However, it is generally best to try comfort measures and non-pharmacological interventions first.
Choice C reason:
Dimming the lights and encouraging the client to take a nap can help reduce anxiety, but it may not be the most effective initial intervention. Providing direct comfort and reassurance is often more beneficial in addressing immediate anxiety.
Choice D reason:
Sitting with the client and providing comfort measures is the most appropriate intervention. This approach helps to alleviate anxiety through direct support and reassurance. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, talking calmly, and providing a comforting presence can significantly reduce anxiety.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Albuterol is a bronchodilator used to treat conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is not typically used in the treatment of tuberculosis (TB). TB treatment focuses on antibiotics that target the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria.
Choice B reason: Isoniazid is one of the primary medications used in the treatment of tuberculosis. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of mycolic acids, which are essential components of the bacterial cell wall. Isoniazid is usually part of the initial treatment regimen for TB and is taken for several months to ensure the complete eradication of the bacteria.
Choice C reason: Pyrazinamide is another key medication in the treatment of tuberculosis. It is particularly effective during the initial phase of treatment and helps to reduce the duration of therapy. Pyrazinamide works by disrupting the bacterial cell membrane metabolism and transport functions.
Choice D reason: Tiotropium is a long-acting bronchodilator used to manage COPD. It is not used in the treatment of tuberculosis. The focus of TB treatment is on antibiotics that specifically target the TB bacteria.
Choice E reason: Rifampin is a critical antibiotic in the treatment of tuberculosis. It works by inhibiting the RNA synthesis of the bacteria, effectively killing the TB bacteria. Rifampin is usually taken in combination with other TB medications to prevent the development of drug-resistant strains of the bacteria.

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