A client who is receiving zidovudine reports the appearance of pinpoint, red, round spots on the skin. Which result should the nurse report to the healthcare provider?
Complete blood count.
Allergy test.
Skin biopsy.
Electromyography.
The Correct Answer is A
A) Correct- Zidovudine is an antiretroviral medication used in the treatment of HIV infection.
One of the potential side effects of zidovudine is hematological toxicity, including anemia (low red blood cell count) and neutropenia (low white blood cell count). The appearance of pinpoint, red, round spots on the skin could be indicative of petechiae, which are small hemorrhages caused by the leakage of blood into the skin. Petechiae can occur due to low platelet counts, a
component of the complete blood count (CBC). Monitoring the complete blood count is important for clients receiving zidovudine to identify any potential adverse effects on blood cell counts. Anemia and neutropenia can increase the risk of infection, bleeding, and other complications. Therefore, any changes in blood cell counts, including the presence of petechiae, should be reported to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
B) Incorrect- This is used to assess allergic reactions and is not specifically related to the appearance of petechiae.
C) Incorrect- A skin biopsy is typically performed to diagnose skin conditions or diseases and is not the primary assessment to evaluate the cause of petechiae.
D) Incorrect- Electromyography is a diagnostic test used to assess muscle and nerve function and is not relevant to the appearance of petechiae associated with zidovudine use.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Allen's test is a procedure used to assess the patency of the ulnar artery and the collateral circulation of the hand. It is performed to determine the adequacy of collateral circulation before obtaining arterial blood gases from the radial artery. The test helps ensure that the ulnar artery is functioning properly and can supply blood to the hand if the radial artery is used for blood sampling or other invasive procedures.
The test involves occluding both the ulnar and radial arteries while the patient clenches their fist. The nurse then releases pressure on the ulnar artery while maintaining occlusion of the radial artery. The hand should quickly regain normal coloration, indicating adequate collateral circulation.
It's important to note that the Allen's test is specific to the assessment of collateral circulation in the hand and is not used for other purposes such as assessing deep vein thrombosis, cardiac output calculation, or obtaining pulmonary artery pressures.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A) Correct- The duration of submersion is a critical factor in determining the potential level of hypoxemia. Prolonged submersion leads to a higher risk of severe hypoxia and its associated complications.
B) Incorrect- While water temperature can affect the body's response to submersion, it is not directly related to the level of hypoxemia. Hypoxemia primarily results from the lack of oxygen intake during submersion.
C) Correct- Witnessing the fall into the pool is important because immediate initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can improve the chances of a positive outcome. Bystander CPR can help maintain oxygenation and circulation until professional help arrives.
D) Correct- The oxygen concentration in the surrounding air is crucial for oxygen delivery to the body's tissues. In cases of submersion, the availability of oxygen in the air the child is breathing plays a role in determining the level of hypoxemia.
E) Incorrect- The weight of the child is not a significant factor in determining the level of hypoxemia during submersion. The primary determinants are factors like submersion duration, availability of oxygen, and prompt initiation of CPR.
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