A home health nurse is examining the lab results of several patients with a history of heart failure (HF). Which patient’s finding should the nurse immediately report to the healthcare provider?
Potassium level of 3.7 mEq/L (3.7 mmol/L).
B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level of 550 pg/mL (550 ng/L).
Total cholesterol level of 190 mg/dL (4.92 mmol/L).
Glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C) level of 7%.
The Correct Answer is B
Answer and explanation
The correct answer is Choice B.
Choice A rationale
A potassium level of 3.7 mEq/L (3.7 mmol/L) is within the normal range, which is typically between 3.6 and 5 mEq/L12. Therefore, this result does not need to be reported immediately to the healthcare provider.
Choice B rationale
B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels are used to diagnose and monitor heart failure. A BNP level of 550 pg/mL (550 ng/L) is significantly higher than the normal range, which is less than 100 pg/mL34. High BNP levels indicate that the heart is working harder than normal, which is a common occurrence in heart failure. Therefore, this result should be reported immediately to the healthcare provider.
Choice C rationale
A total cholesterol level of 190 mg/dL (4.92 mmol/L) is considered borderline high. While it’s important to manage cholesterol levels in patients with heart failure, this result is not critical and does not need to be reported immediately to the healthcare provider.
Choice D rationale
A glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C) level of 7% is at the threshold for the diagnosis of diabetes. Diabetes can complicate the management of heart failure and increase the risk of cardiovascular events. However, this result is not critical and does not need to be reported immediately to the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Answer and explanation The correct answer is D. Choice A rationale
While contacting a larger hospital might provide some insights, it may not directly address the communication breakdown during a disaster. Each disaster situation and hospital setting is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.
Choice B rationale
Finding out who did not follow the communication tree might help identify gaps in the process, but it does not necessarily solve the immediate issue of communication breakdown during a disaster.
Choice C rationale
Having one person follow-up for the entire hospital might not be feasible or effective, especially during a disaster when quick and efficient communication is crucial.
Choice D rationale
Confirming that all essential staff are on either the lockdown team or the relief team ensures that everyone knows their roles and responsibilities, which is crucial for effective communication during a disaster.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Answer and explanation
The correct answer is Choice B.
Choice A rationale
Allowing the family to visit whenever they wish can provide emotional support to the client, which is important in palliative care. However, it may not directly address the physical symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis (MS), such as pain and anxiety.
Choice B rationale
Administering medication as needed for pain and anxiety should be prioritized in the care plan for a client with MS in a palliative care unit. MS can cause varying degrees of pain and anxiety, and managing these symptoms can significantly improve the client’s quality of life during the advanced stages of the disease.
Choice C rationale
Maintaining a quiet environment with low lighting can help create a calm and comfortable atmosphere for the client. However, it does not directly address the physical symptoms of MS34.
Choice D rationale
Allowing the client to participate in the care provided can promote a sense of control and autonomy. However, it may not directly address the physical symptoms associated with MS34.
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