A nurse is caring for a child who has acute appendicitis. Which of the following results should the nurse anticipate when reviewing this client's laboratory values?
RBC 4.2 million/mm³
Lymphocytes 3,000/mm3
Neutrophils 3.000/mm³
WBC 17.000/mm3
The Correct Answer is D
When caring for a child with acute appendicitis, the nurse should anticipate an elevated white blood cell count (WBC) in the laboratory values. A high WBC count is a common finding in acute appendicitis, as it indicates an inflammatory response and infection in the body. The body's immune system responds to the inflammation caused by the infected appendix, leading to an increase in WBCs to fight off the infection.
The other options are not necessarily specific to acute appendicitis:
A. RBC 4.2 million/mm³: The red blood cell count (RBC) measures the number of red blood cells in the bloodstream. This value may be within the normal range, but it is not the primary marker for diagnosing or monitoring acute appendicitis.
B. Lymphocytes 3,000/mm3: Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell involved in the body's immune response. While changes in lymphocyte levels can occur during inflammation, it is not the primary marker for diagnosing or monitoring acute appendicitis.
C. Neutrophils 3.000/mm³: Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that increases in response to infection and inflammation. However, the absolute neutrophil count is not as relevant as the overall WBC count in determining the presence and severity of acute appendicitis.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. A client's blood pressure changes from 112/60 mm Hg to 90/54 mm Hg when standing.
A significant drop in blood pressure when changing positions from lying to standing may indicate orthostatic hypotension, which can be a sign of dehydration, blood loss, or other underlying medical issues. This can be a cause for concern, especially if the client is an adolescent, as it may lead to decreased perfusion of vital organs and may require immediate medical attention.
The other options are as follows:
A. A client who has a burn injury to an estimated 5% of his leg and is crying - While it's essential to assess and address the client's pain and comfort, this finding does not indicate an immediate need for medical attention. Pain management and wound care can be addressed based on the severity of the burn and the client's pain level.
B. A client who has an ankle fracture reports a pain level increase from 3 to 5 after initial ambulation - This finding is concerning, and the nurse should notify the provider to reassess pain management and evaluate for potential complications related to the fracture. However, it may not require immediate medical attention unless there are signs of severe pain or complications.
C. A client who is 1 day postoperative and has a temperature of 37.5° C (99.5° F) - A slight increase in temperature in the immediate postoperative period may not be unusual and can be attributed to the normal inflammatory response after surgery. The nurse should continue monitoring the client's temperature and report any further changes or additional signs of infection or complications to the provider.
Overall, while all findings should be addressed and managed appropriately, the significant drop in blood pressure (option D) should be reported immediately due to the potential implications for the client's overall health and well-being.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. "My child will take the enzymes to help digest the fat in foods."
Cystic fibrosis (CF) affects the exocrine glands, leading to thick and sticky mucus production, which can block the pancreatic ducts. As a result, children with CF have difficulty digesting fats and absorbing fat-soluble vitamins. Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) is prescribed to help improve fat digestion and nutrient absorption. These enzymes are taken with meals and snacks to aid in the breakdown of fats.
The other options are incorrect:
A. "My child will take the enzymes following meals." - This is the correct timing for taking pancreatic enzymes. The enzymes should be taken with meals and snacks, not following meals.
B. "My child will take the enzymes to improve her metabolism." - The purpose of taking pancreatic enzymes is not related to improving metabolism but to assist in fat digestion and nutrient absorption.
C. "My child will take the enzymes 2 hours before meals." - Taking pancreatic enzymes 2 hours before meals is not the recommended timing. They should be taken with meals and snacks to aid in fat digestion while eating.
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