A client reports experiencing numbness and tingling in the extremities. Which of the client's serum laboratory values should the practical nurse (PN) prioritize reporting to the healthcare provider?
Hematocrit
Albumin and protein levels
Electrolytes
White blood cell count (WBC)
The Correct Answer is C
When a client reports experiencing numbness and tingling in the extremities, it is crucial for the practical nurse (PN) to prioritize reporting the client's electrolyte levels to the healthcare provider. Electrolytes are essential minerals that help maintain the balance of fluids in the body and enable proper nerve and muscle function. Imbalances in electrolyte levels can lead to neurological symptoms, including numbness and tingling.
Options a, b, and d are not the correct priorities to report in this situation:
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is C.
Choice A reason:
Repeating the heel stick for glucose in one hour is not the best first action because it delays necessary treatment and the infant's glucose could drop further, potentially causing harm.
Choice B reason:
Offering nipple feedings of 10% dextrose is not the initial treatment of choice for neonatal hypoglycemia. Oral dextrose gel may be used, but the priority is to provide a source of nutrition, such as breast milk or formula, which offers more sustained glucose levels.
Choice C reason:
Begin frequent feedings of breast milk or formula. This is the first intervention to implement because the infant's current glucose level is below the normal neonatal range of [30 to 60 mg/dL or 1.7 to 3.3 mmol/L], indicating hypoglycemia, which is common in infants of mothers with gestational diabetes. Immediate feeding can help raise the blood glucose level safely.
Choice D reason:
Assessing for signs of hypocalcemia is not the immediate priority. While hypocalcemia can occur in newborns, particularly those with maternal diabetes, the current symptoms and glucose level suggest hypoglycemia is the primary concern. Signs of hypocalcemia include irritability, muscle twitches, jitteriness, tremors, and poor feeding, which can overlap with hypoglycemia symptoms. However, the heel stick glucose level clearly indicates hypoglycemia, which should be addressed first.
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
Since the pregnant woman is vegetarian and does not eat meat, the practical nurse (PN) should provide alternative sources of iron-rich foods. Lentils and black beans are excellent vegetarian sources of iron and can be added to soups to increase iron intake (option a).
Oatmeal is a good choice for breakfast as it is often fortified with iron (option d). This can help supplement iron intake in the diet.
Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and broccoli, are also rich in iron and should be increased in the client's diet (option e).
Option b, which suggests eating red meat just until the anemia is resolved, is not appropriate for a vegetarian client.
Option c, taking two prenatal vitamins with iron daily, is not necessary unless specifically advised by the healthcare provider. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage of medication and supplements as directed by the healthcare provider.
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