A client is post-op nephrectomy for renal cancer. Which lab results would cause most concern for the nurse?

Table 34.1 Review of Normal Ranges for Complete Blood Cell Counts (Adult)

Blood Cell

Normal Ranges

Red blood cells (mature, circulating)

Male 4.51-6.01 million/mm3

Female: 4.01-5.51 million/mm3

Hemoglobin

Adult (15-64 yr)

Male 14-17.3 g/dL

Female 11.7-15.5 g/dL

Hematocrit

42% -52% in males

36% -48% in females

Reticulocytes

0.5% -2.5% of total RBC count

White blood cells (total)

4.5-11.1 103/mm3

Neutrophils

59%

Bands 3%

Segs-56%

Eosinophils

2.7%

Basophils

0.5%

Lymphocytes

34%

Monocytes

4%

Platelets

150,000-450,000/mm3

Hemoglobin of 14 g/dL

Platelet count 150,000 mm3

White blood cell count 17,000 mm3

Neutrophils 59%

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A.   This value is within the normal range for adult males (14-17.3 g/dL) and borderline for females (11.7- 15.5 g/dL). While the specific context of the patient (e.g., gender) matters, generally, a hemoglobin level of 14 g/dL would not typically cause concern.

B.   A platelet count of 150,000/mm³ is at the lower limit of normal (150,000-450,000/mm³). While this may be concerning in certain clinical contexts, it is still within the acceptable range and would not typically raise alarm for a post-op nephrectomy patient unless there are other indications of bleeding or clotting issues.
C.   This white blood cell count is elevated (normal range is 4.5-11.1 x 10³/mm³). An elevated WBC count can indicate an infection, inflammation, or a response to surgery, which is particularly concerning post- operatively. This result would warrant further investigation to rule out infection, which is critical for recovery.
D.   The neutrophil percentage of 59% is within the normal range (typically around 40-70% for total WBCs). While it is slightly elevated, it is not concerning on its own without additional context, especially since it may be elevated in response to surgery or stress.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. The elevated pH and decreased PaCO2 indicate that the respiratory system is causing alkalosis, typically due to hyperventilation (excessive breathing).
B. Metabolic alkalosis would be indicated by a high pH with a normal or high HCO3. Since the HCO3 level is normal and the PaCO2 is low, this does not fit the picture of metabolic alkalosis.
C. Respiratory acidosis would be characterized by a low pH and an elevated PaCO2 due to inadequate ventilation and accumulation of carbon dioxide. Here, the pH is high, and the PaCO2 is low.
D. Metabolic acidosis would be indicated by a low pH with a low HCO3. In this case, the pH is high, and the HCO3 is normal.

A. Discuss the precipitating factors that caused the symptoms B. Schedule a STAT computed tomography (CT) scan of the head C. Prepare to administer recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) D. Notify the Speech Pathologist for an emergency consult

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A.While it's important to gather information about the client's symptoms, the priority in this situation is to determine the underlying cause of the neurological symptoms. A CT scan can quickly identify if there's been a stroke or other brain injury.
B.This is the most appropriate and urgent intervention. A CT scan can rapidly identify if the client has had a stroke, which is a time-sensitive medical emergency. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for minimizing brain damage and improving outcomes.
C.t-PA is a medication used to dissolve blood clots in the brain, but it is only effective if given within a specific time window after the onset of stroke symptoms. Without a confirmed diagnosis of stroke from a CT scan, administering t-PA could be harmful.
D.While a speech pathologist may be involved in the client's care later on, the priority is to determine the underlying cause of the neurological symptoms and initiate appropriate treatment. A CT scan is essential for this purpose.

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ABG Value	Normal Range
PH	7.35-7.45
PaCO2	35-45 mm Hg
HCO3-	22-26 mEq/L
Base excess	-2 to +2
PaO2	80-95 mm Hg
SaO2	>95%

Blood Cell	Normal Ranges
Red blood cells (mature, circulating)	Male 4.51-6.01 million/mm3 Female: 4.01-5.51 million/mm3
Hemoglobin	Adult (15-64 yr) Male 14-17.3 g/dL Female 11.7-15.5 g/dL
Hematocrit	42% -52% in males 36% -48% in females
Reticulocytes	0.5% -2.5% of total RBC count
White blood cells (total)	4.5-11.1 103/mm3
Neutrophils	59% Bands 3% Segs-56%
Eosinophils	2.7%
Basophils	0.5%
Lymphocytes	34%
Monocytes	4%
Platelets	150,000-450,000/mm3

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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