While changing a client's postoperative dressing, the nurse observes purulent drainage at the site.
Before reporting this finding to the healthcare provider, the nurse should note which of the client's laboratory values?
Serum sodium level.
Hematocrit.
Neutrophil count.
Platelet count.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Serum sodium level. Rationale: While electrolyte imbalances can be significant, in the context of purulent drainage at a postoperative site, monitoring serum sodium levels is not the top priority. Other laboratory values are more relevant in this situation.
Choice B rationale:
Hematocrit. Rationale: Hematocrit measures the proportion of red blood cells in the blood and is not directly related to wound drainage or infection. It is not the most relevant parameter to assess in this situation.
Choice C rationale:
Neutrophil count. Rationale: Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in the body's immune response, particularly against bacterial infections. Elevated neutrophil counts can indicate an ongoing infection, so monitoring this value is important when assessing purulent wound drainage.
Choice D rationale:
Platelet count. Rationale: Platelet count measures the number of blood clotting cells in the blood and is not directly related to wound drainage or infection. It is not the most relevant parameter to assess in this situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Ketonuria is not a common complication of diabetes insipidus. Ketonuria is associated with diabetes mellitus, a different condition that results in the accumulation of ketones in the urine due to insufficient insulin.
Choice B rationale:
Peripheral edema is also an unlikely complication of diabetes insipidus. Diabetes insipidus is characterized by excessive thirst and urination, not fluid retention or peripheral edema.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Nosocomial transmission in the medical area. Rationale: Nosocomial transmission refers to infections that are acquired in healthcare settings. While it's essential for healthcare professionals to be aware of this risk, the client's presentation of diarrhea in a hurricane disaster area is more likely due to environmental factors rather than hospital-acquired infection.
Choice B rationale:
Food contamination from floodwaters. Rationale: In the aftermath of a hurricane, floodwaters can carry contaminants and pathogens, leading to food contamination. This is a significant concern, and the nurse should educate the client about the potential risks associated with consuming food exposed to floodwaters. However, the primary source of contamination for diarrhea is typically waterborne pathogens, which is addressed in choice C.
Choice C rationale:
Drinking water contaminated by sewage. Rationale: During natural disasters like hurricanes, sewage systems can become compromised, leading to the contamination of drinking water sources. This contamination poses a significant risk for diarrheal illnesses, as sewage often contains harmful pathogens. Therefore, the nurse should consider this as the most probable source of the client's exposure.
Choice D rationale:
Close living quarters at evacuation centers. Rationale: Close living quarters in evacuation centers can contribute to the spread of infectious diseases, including diarrheal illnesses. However, in this scenario, the client's chief complaint is diarrhea, and the nurse should prioritize investigating potential sources of waterborne contamination, as this aligns more closely with the client's symptoms.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
