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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Have a pulse oximetry reading of 95% or greater by discharge: While maintaining a pulse oximetry reading of 95% or greater is important, it may not fully address the client’s activity intolerance. Pulse oximetry measures the oxygen saturation in the blood, and normal readings typically range from 95% to 100%. However, achieving this reading alone does not ensure that the client can perform activities without experiencing dyspnea or fatigue.

Choice B reason:

Exhibit a respiratory rate of 12-20/minute by discharge: A normal respiratory rate for adults is between 12 and 20 breaths per minute. While this is a good indicator of respiratory function, it does not directly address the client’s ability to perform self-care activities without dyspnea. The goal should focus on the client’s functional ability rather than just physiological parameters.

Choice C reason:

Perform self-care activity without dyspnea by discharge: This outcome directly addresses the client’s activity intolerance. Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, is a significant symptom that affects the client’s ability to perform daily activities. By setting a goal for the client to perform self-care activities without dyspnea, the care plan focuses on improving the client’s functional status and quality of life.

Choice D reason:

Have clear breath sounds bilaterally by discharge: Clear breath sounds are an important indicator of improved lung function and resolution of pneumonia. However, this outcome does not specifically address the client’s activity intolerance. While clear breath sounds are desirable, the primary goal should be to ensure the client can perform activities without experiencing dyspnea.

A. Apply an iodine-soaked sterile dressing. B. Irrigate the wound and apply a dry sterile dressing. C. Apply a dressing and notify the surgeon. D. Apply a sterile dressing soaked with normal saline.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A Reason:

Applying an iodine-soaked sterile dressing is not the best initial action. Iodine can be irritating to exposed tissues and may not provide the necessary moisture to protect the underlying tissue. The primary goal is to keep the tissue moist and prevent further damage.

Choice B Reason:

Irrigating the wound and applying a dry sterile dressing is not appropriate in this situation. Irrigation might cause further damage to the exposed tissue, and a dry dressing will not keep the tissue moist, which is crucial for preventing desiccation and promoting healing.

Choice C Reason:

Applying a dressing and notifying the surgeon is important, but the type of dressing is crucial. A dry dressing or an inappropriate dressing material can harm the exposed tissue. The nurse should first apply a moist dressing to protect the tissue and then notify the surgeon.

Choice D Reason:

Applying a sterile dressing soaked with normal saline is the most appropriate initial action. This type of dressing keeps the exposed tissue moist, which is essential for preventing further damage and promoting healing. Normal saline is gentle and will not irritate the tissue, making it the best choice for initial wound care.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with left lower lobe pneumonia has activity intolerance related to impaired oxygen supply and demand as evidenced by fatigue, dyspnea, and difficulty performing self-care. Which expected outcome must be included in the care plan related to this problem? The client will:

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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