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 D

Explanation

A. While pain can occur post-operatively and may be a sign of complications, it is not a direct indicator of bleeding. Pain can result from normal healing, surgical trauma, or other complications, but by itself, it does not specifically point to bleeding at the surgical site.
B. An increased blood pressure might not necessarily indicate bleeding. In some cases, blood pressure may increase due to pain, anxiety, or other factors. However, a significant drop in blood pressure would be more indicative of bleeding, especially in conjunction with other symptoms.
C. A decreased white blood cell count (leukopenia) is not typically associated with bleeding at the surgical site. In fact, following surgery, one might expect the white blood cell count to be normal or slightly elevated due to the body’s response to surgery.
D. This finding is indicative of bleeding at the surgical site. Blood on the pillow would suggest that there is active bleeding that has escaped from the surgical site, which is a significant concern that requires immediate assessment and intervention.

A. "I should not exercise if I develop a leg ulcer." B. "I should buy my shoes in the afternoon." C. "I should dangle my legs when sitting." D. "I must wear compression stockings at all times."

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. While it's true that ulcers can be a serious complication of PAD and require careful management, exercise is generally encouraged in patients with PAD as long as it is safe and supervised. Patients should consult their healthcare provider about appropriate exercise, but not exercising altogether can worsen their condition.
B. Buying shoes in the afternoon is advisable because feet can swell throughout the day. It helps ensure a better fit and reduces the risk of blisters or skin breakdown, which is particularly important for clients with PAD.
C. This statement is generally correct, as dangling the legs can help improve circulation in some cases. Clients with PAD often experience relief when their legs are in a dependent position, as it may help increase blood flow to the extremities. However, they should also be encouraged to avoid prolonged periods of sitting.
D. This statement may indicate a misunderstanding. Compression stockings are typically used for venous issues rather than arterial diseases like PAD. In patients with PAD, wearing compression stockings may not be appropriate and could potentially compromise arterial blood flow.

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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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Explanation

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Explanation

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