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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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Checking the child’s blood glucose level via fingerstick is the most important step before administering insulin to prevent hypoglycemia or ensure the appropriate dose.
B. Exercise affects blood sugar, but the immediate priority is verifying the blood glucose level.
C. Urination patterns can indicate hyperglycemia, but they are not the most critical factor before insulin administration.
D. Eating is important, but insulin dosing should be based on blood glucose readings and meal intake combined.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The vital sign trends that indicate increased intracranial pressure (ICP) and should be reported to the charge nurse are:
Bradycardia: A slow heart rate can be a sign of increased ICP.
Irregular respiratory patterns: Abnormal breathing patterns, such as irregular or Cheyne-Stokes respirations, can be indicative of increased ICP.
Widening pulse pressure: An increased difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure (widening pulse pressure) can be a sign of increased ICP.
A- Heart rate above 110 beats/minute, elevated respiratory rate, and hypotension: While an elevated heart rate and respiratory rate can be associated with increased ICP, hypotension (low blood pressure) is not typically seen in this condition. Hypotension can be a sign of other factors, such as hypovolemia or shock, which may or may not be related to the head injury.
B- Bounding pulse rate, groaning respiratory effort, and elevated blood pressure: Bounding pulse rate and elevated blood pressure are not specific to increased ICP. They can be influenced by other factors such as pain, anxiety, or medications. Groaning respiratory effort may indicate respiratory distress, but it is not directly related to increased ICP.
C- Thready rapid pulse, trembling, perspiration, weakness, and irritability: These signs and symptoms can be associated with various conditions such as anxiety, stress, or other physiological responses. While they may occur in the context of increased ICP, they are not specific to this condition alone.
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