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 C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an elevated pH and an increased bicarbonate (HCO3) level. In this case, the pH is elevated (7.51), but the bicarbonate level is within the normal range (24 mEq/L), indicating that the alkalosis is not metabolic in origin.
Choice B reason: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decreased pH and a decreased bicarbonate (HCO3) level. In this scenario, the pH is elevated, not decreased, and the bicarbonate level is normal, ruling out metabolic acidosis.
Choice C reason: Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by an elevated pH and a decreased partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2). The given values show a pH of 7.51 (elevated) and a PaCO2 of 28 mmHg (decreased), which are indicative of respiratory alkalosis. This condition often occurs in the early stages of an asthma attack due to hyperventilation, which causes excessive exhalation of CO2.
Choice D reason: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a decreased pH and an increased PaCO2. In this case, the pH is elevated, and the PaCO2 is decreased, which is the opposite of what is seen in respiratory acidosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Pursed-lip breathing is a technique used to help manage shortness of breath and improve ventilation. It involves breathing in through the nose and exhaling slowly through pursed lips, as if blowing out a candle. This method helps to keep the airways open longer, allowing more air to escape and reducing the work of breathing.
Choice A reason:
Exhale quickly and forcefully through the mouth is not the correct intervention for pursed-lip breathing. Exhaling quickly and forcefully can cause the airways to collapse, making it harder to breathe out all the air. This can lead to air trapping and increased shortness of breath, which is counterproductive for clients with respiratory issues.
Choice B reason:
Inhale sharply with a “huff” sound is also not correct for pursed-lip breathing. Huff coughing is a technique used to clear mucus from the airways, not to manage breathing patterns. Inhaling sharply can cause irritation and may not provide the controlled breathing needed for effective gas exchange.
Choice C reason:
Inhale deeply through pursed lips is incorrect. The correct technique for pursed-lip breathing involves inhaling through the nose, not through pursed lips. Inhaling through the nose helps to filter and humidify the air, making it easier on the lungs and airways.
Choice D reason:
Exhale slowly through pursed lips is the correct intervention. This technique helps to prolong exhalation, which reduces the respiratory rate and improves ventilation. By keeping the airways open longer, it helps to release trapped air and improve oxygenation. This method is particularly beneficial for clients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, as it helps to reduce the work of breathing and improve overall respiratory function.
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