A client is receiving gentamicin and vancomycin IV for urosepsis. Which diagnostic study result should the nurse report to the primary care practitioner?
Urine negative for ketones.
Sodium 135 mg/dL and Potassium 3.5 mEq/L.
BUN 34 mg/dL and Creatinine 4.2 mg/dL.
White blood cell count 12,000/mm³.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason
Urine negative for ketones is a normal finding and does not typically indicate an acute problem. Ketones in the urine can be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes or starvation, but their absence is expected in a well-nourished individual who is not in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Choice B Reason
Sodium at 135 mg/dL and Potassium at 3.5 mEq/L are within normal ranges. The normal range for serum sodium is approximately 135-145 mEq/L, and for serum potassium, it is around 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. These values do not indicate an immediate concern for the patient with urosepsis.
Choice C Reason
A BUN of 34 mg/dL and Creatinine of 4.2 mg/dL are concerning. The normal range for BUN is approximately 6-20 mg/dL, and for Creatinine, it is about 0.6-1.2 mg/dL for males and 0.5-1.1 mg/dL for females. Elevated levels of BUN and Creatinine indicate impaired kidney function, which can be a complication of urosepsis and the nephrotoxic effects of gentamicin and vancomycin.
Choice D Reason
A white blood cell count of 12,000/mm³ is slightly elevated, which may be expected in a patient with an infection such as urosepsis. The normal range is approximately 4,500-11,000 WBCs/mm³. While this should be monitored, it does not require immediate reporting unless there is a significant change or it is outside the patient's baseline.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Allowing the client some time alone could be beneficial in certain situations where the client prefers solitude to process their emotions. However, in the context of intimate partner abuse, leaving the client alone when they are visibly distressed may not provide the immediate support and safety they need.
Choice B reason:
Remaining with the client is crucial in providing emotional support and ensuring their safety. Victims of intimate partner abuse often feel isolated and scared; having a compassionate presence can offer comfort and reassurance. The nurse's presence can also help in assessing the client's immediate needs and risks, and in facilitating access to further support and resources.
Choice C reason:
Making an audio recording without the client's consent could be a violation of privacy and trust. It is essential to respect the client's autonomy and confidentiality, especially in sensitive situations involving abuse. The priority should be to address the client's emotional state and safety, not to gather evidence.
Choice D reason:
Encouraging the client to write down their thoughts can be a therapeutic tool and may be suggested as part of ongoing therapy or coping strategies. However, it should not be the first action taken when the client is in acute distress. Immediate emotional support and safety planning are more pressing concerns.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason
Ceftriaxone is an antibiotic that may be prescribed during COPD exacerbations to treat or prevent infection. A white blood cell count of 16,000 u/L indicates an elevated level, which could be a response to infection. Therefore, ceftriaxone would be appropriate, and there is no need to question this medication based on the white blood cell count.
Choice B Reason
Zafirlukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used for the prophylactic treatment of asthma, and it may be used off-label for COPD. AST and ALT levels are liver enzymes, and the values provided (AST of 30 units/L and ALT of 20 units/L) are within normal ranges. Thus, there is no immediate concern regarding liver function that would prompt the nurse to question the use of zafirlukast.
Choice C Reason
Theophylline is a bronchodilator used in the treatment of COPD. However, a theophylline level of 21 mg/dL is above the therapeutic range, which is generally considered to be 5-15 mg/dL. Levels above 20 mg/dL are associated with toxicity and can lead to serious side effects such as seizures or arrhythmias. Therefore, the nurse should question this medication due to the high theophylline level.
Choice D Reason
Prednisone is a corticosteroid that may be used to reduce inflammation during COPD exacerbations. A glucose level of 110 mg/dL is slightly elevated but may be expected as corticosteroids can increase blood sugar levels. This would not typically be a reason to question the use of prednisone unless the patient has poorly controlled diabetes or other specific contraindications.
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