A nurse is assessing a client who has cirrhosis.
Which of the following findings is the priority for the nurse to report?
Distended abdomen.
Clay-colored stools.
Platelets 70,000/mm.
Alkaline phosphatase 125 units/L.
The Correct Answer is C
Platelets 70,000/mm.
The priority finding for a nurse assessing a client who has cirrhosis to report is a platelet count of 70,000/mm.
A low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can be a complication of cirrhosis and can increase the risk of bleeding.
A platelet count below 150,000/mm3 is considered low and should be reported to the provider.
Choice A is incorrect because while a distended abdomen can be a sign of ascites, a complication of cirrhosis, it is not the priority finding to report.
Choice B is incorrect because while clay-colored stools can be a sign of biliary obstruction, it is not the priority finding to report.
Choice D is incorrect because while an elevated alkaline phosphatase level can be a sign of liver damage, it is not the priority finding to report.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should attend to the client who has thrombocytopenia and reports a nosebleed first.
Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by low platelet count, which increases the risk of bleeding.
A nosebleed can be a sign of significant bleeding, and it is important for the nurse to assess the severity and take appropriate action to stop the bleeding and prevent further complications.
Although the other clients also require nursing care, their conditions are not as urgent as the client with thrombocytopenia and a nosebleed.
The client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and an oxygen saturation of 89% may require oxygen therapy or other interventions to improve respiratory function, but the situation is not immediately life-threatening.
The client with left-sided paralysis and slurred speech from a prior stroke may require ongoing care and rehabilitation, but there is no indication of an acute change in their condition.
The client with multiple sclerosis and ataxia and vertigo may require assistance with mobility and balance, but their symptoms do not pose an immediate threat to their health.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Lithium. Lithium is a medication that has been associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes insipidus. This is because lithium can interfere with the function of the kidneys and their ability to respond to antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which regulates the balance of fluids in the body.
Atorvastatin (choice B) is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels and has not been associated with an increased risk of diabetes insipidus.
Propranolol (choice A) is a beta-blocker used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions and has not been associated with an increased risk of diabetes insipidus.
Ranitidine (choice C) is a medication used to reduce stomach acid production and has not been associated with an increased risk of diabetes insipidus.
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