A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism that is placed on a continuous heparin infusion. The nurse should notify the health care provider for which of the following findings?
Client develops petechiae on the arms, legs, and abdomen.
Health care provider orders Coumadin 2.5 mg P.O. to begin today.
Client develops slight ecchymosis at the venipuncture site.
Client's partial thromboplastin time (PTT) is 70 seconds and the control is 25-40 seconds.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Client develops petechiae on the arms, legs, and abdomen: Petechiae can indicate thrombocytopenia, which may be a complication of heparin therapy but is not an urgent concern unless severe or associated with bleeding.
B. Health care provider orders Coumadin 2.5 mg P.O. to begin today: Coumadin (warfarin) is often initiated as a bridge therapy or overlap with heparin therapy in pulmonary embolism management. This order is not necessarily inappropriate and may be part of the treatment plan.
C. Client develops slight ecchymosis at the venipuncture site: Ecchymosis at the venipuncture site can occur due to minor trauma during the insertion of IV lines or blood draws and is not necessarily indicative of a complication requiring immediate notification of the healthcare provider.
D. Client's partial thromboplastin time (PTT) is 70 seconds and the control is 25-40 seconds: A significantly elevated PTT indicates a potential overdose of heparin, putting the client at risk of bleeding complications. This finding warrants immediate notification of the healthcare provider for further evaluation and possible adjustment of heparin therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The client has circumoral cyanosis: Circumoral cyanosis, or bluish discoloration around the mouth, is a sign of hypoxia but may not be present in all cases of hypoxemia. Pulse oximetry provides a more objective measurement.
B. The client's heart rate is 86 bpm: Heart rate may be within normal limits even in the presence of hypoxemia, as compensatory mechanisms may not be fully activated.
C. The client has a pulse ox of 90% on room air: A pulse oximetry reading of 90% indicates hypoxemia (oxygen saturation below normal levels), which is a significant finding, especially in a client with COPD who may already have compromised respiratory function.
D. The client is lethargic: Lethargy may occur with severe hypoxemia, but it is a late sign and may not always be present. Monitoring oxygen saturation is more reliable for early detection of hypoxemia.
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Consumes spicy snacks daily: Consuming spicy snacks daily is not a known risk factor for laryngeal cancer. Risk factors for laryngeal cancer typically include tobacco use, alcohol consumption, exposure to certain chemicals, and occupational hazards.
B. Uses flavored chewing tobacco: Chewing tobacco, especially flavored varieties, is a known risk factor for laryngeal cancer. Tobacco contains carcinogenic substances that can damage the cells of the larynx, increasing the risk of cancer development.
C. Employed as x-ray technician: Being employed as an x-ray technician is not a known risk factor for laryngeal cancer. However, prolonged exposure to radiation may increase the risk of other types of cancer, such as lung cancer.
D. Partner smokes cigarettes: Secondhand smoke exposure from a partner who smokes cigarettes is a risk factor for laryngeal cancer. Inhaling tobacco smoke, even indirectly, can expose the individual to carcinogens that may contribute to the development of cancer.
E. Employed as industrial painter: Occupational exposure to certain chemicals, such as those found in paint and industrial solvents, is a known risk factor for laryngeal cancer. Industrial painters may be exposed to carcinogens through inhalation or skin contact, increasing their risk of developing cancer.
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