A client with peritonitis develops an elevated white blood cell count. The nurse recognizes this laboratory finding as indicative of:
Anemia
Infection
Hypoalbuminemia
Dehydration
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Anemia refers to a low red blood cell count or hemoglobin level and is not directly related to an elevated white blood cell count.
Choice B reason:
An elevated white blood cell count is a common indicator of infection, such as in peritonitis, as the body's immune response is heightened to combat the inflammation and infection.
Choice C reason:
Hypoalbuminemia refers to low albumin levels in the blood and is not directly related to an elevated white blood cell count.
Choice D reason:
Dehydration may result in elevated blood cell counts due to hemoconcentration, but it is not the primary cause of an elevated white blood cell count in peritonitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Assessing heart function requires specific cardiac imaging, not the imaging indicated for peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Identifying bone fractures would require imaging specific to the bones, not the peritoneum.
Choice C reason:
Diagnostic imaging in peritonitis aims to detect inflammation and infection in the peritoneum, helping to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
Choice D reason:
Evaluating lung health would involve pulmonary imaging, not the imaging indicated for peritonitis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels and is not directly related to the signs described in the scenario.
Choice B reason:
Hyperthyroidism involves an overactive thyroid gland and may cause symptoms such as weight loss and heat intolerance but is not associated with the signs described.
Choice C reason:
The client's high fever, chills, and profuse sweating are suggestive of sepsis, a severe systemic infection often resulting from peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
Renal failure involves impaired kidney function and may present with specific signs, but it is not directly related to the signs described in the scenario.
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