A 4-year-old patient is brought to the clinic because the child has not recovered from a respiratory infection. The patient is pale and lethargic. Leukemia is suspected. Which lab value, if elevated, would support the diagnosis of leukemia?
Red blood cell count.
White blood cell count.
Platelet count.
Hematocrit.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
The red blood cell count is not typically elevated in leukemia. Leukemia primarily affects the white blood cells and their precursors in the bone marrow.
Choice B rationale:
Leukemia involves uncontrolled proliferation of white blood cells. An elevated white blood cell count, especially with abnormal cell types, can support the diagnosis of leukemia.
Choice C rationale:
Platelet count abnormalities are common in leukemia, but an elevated platelet count is more often associated with other conditions such as essential thrombocytosis, not necessarily leukemia.
Choice D rationale:
Hematocrit measures the volume of red blood cells in the blood and is not directly indicative of leukemia. Leukemia primarily affects white blood cells and does not significantly impact hematocrit levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Monitoring the patient's breathing pattern at 15-minute intervals is crucial in an unconscious patient who may have ingested alcohol or drugs, as it helps assess their respiratory status. This intervention ensures early detection of any respiratory distress and guides necessary interventions.
Choice B rationale:
Inserting an indwelling Foley catheter for straight drainage is appropriate for unconscious patients to monitor their urinary output and renal function. This helps prevent urinary retention and complications related to inadequate urine elimination.
Choice C rationale:
Administering IV D5/45 NS at 100 mL/hr is a suitable intervention to maintain the patient's fluid and electrolyte balance. It prevents dehydration and supports hemodynamic stability.
Choice D rationale:
The nurse should question the prescription of syrup of ipecac. Ipecac is no longer recommended for use in cases of poisoning due to its potential to cause adverse effects like aspiration, electrolyte imbalances, and delayed treatment. Activated charcoal or gastric lavage may be more appropriate in this situation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Increased respirations are not a specific symptom of increased intracranial pressure (ICP). They might occur due to other respiratory or metabolic issues.
Choice B rationale:
Widened pulse pressure (the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure) is a sign of increased ICP. It results from increased systolic pressure due to the body's attempt to compensate for the rising pressure within the skull.
Choice C rationale:
Prolonged capillary refill is indicative of decreased peripheral perfusion or shock, which can be caused by various factors but is not directly related to ICP.
Choice D rationale:
Decreased blood pressure is not a consistent symptom of increased ICP. In fact, widened pulse pressure is more characteristic.
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