A nurse is caring for a client in the intensive care unit. Which of the following laboratory values could contribute to an episode of delirium?
White blood cell level of 5,900 mm3
Potassium level of 4.1 mEq/L
Hemoglobin level of 14.2 g/dL
Blood glucose level of 254 mg/dL
The Correct Answer is D
A. White blood cell level of 5,900 mm3: While abnormal white blood cell levels can indicate infection or inflammation, they are not typically associated with directly contributing to an episode of delirium. However, underlying conditions that cause abnormal white blood cell levels, such as infection or inflammation, may contribute to delirium.
B. Potassium level of 4.1 mEq/L: Potassium imbalances can lead to various neurological symptoms, including weakness, paralysis, and cardiac arrhythmias. However, a potassium level of 4.1 mEq/L is within the normal range and is unlikely to directly contribute to an episode of delirium.
C. Hemoglobin level of 14.2 g/dL: Hemoglobin levels reflect the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood and are not directly associated with delirium. While severe anemia or hypoxia can cause neurological symptoms, a hemoglobin level of 14.2 g/dL is within the normal range and is unlikely to directly contribute to delirium.
D. Blood glucose level of 254 mg/dL: Elevated blood glucose levels, as indicated by a blood glucose level of 254 mg/dL, can contribute to an episode of delirium. Hyperglycemia can lead to alterations in cerebral metabolism, neuronal dysfunction, and impaired cognitive function, predisposing individuals to delirium. Additionally, hyperglycemia can exacerbate preexisting neurological conditions and increase the risk of developing delirium in critically ill patients. Therefore, monitoring and managing blood glucose levels are essential in preventing and managing delirium in hospitalized patients.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Answer: A, B, and C
Rationale: A) Falls: Falls are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) across all age groups, especially among older adults and young children. Falls can occur due to various factors such as slipping, tripping, or accidents from heights.
B) Violence: Acts of violence, including assaults, gunshot wounds, and domestic abuse, are significant contributors to TBIs. These traumatic events can result in head injuries with varying degrees of severity, depending on the force and nature of the trauma.
C) Sports-related injuries: Participation in contact sports or activities with a risk of collision or impact, such as football, soccer, or cycling, can lead to TBIs. Athletes may experience concussions or more severe head injuries during games or practice sessions.
D) Working as a firefighter: While occupations like firefighting can expose individuals to hazardous situations, including fires and building collapses, they are not typically cited as primary causes of TBIs. However, firefighters may face head injury risks while performing their duties, especially during rescue operations or structural collapses.
E) Working in a factory: While accidents in industrial settings can lead to various injuries, including head trauma, they are not among the primary causes of TBIs. However, workers in factories or industrial environments may face risks associated with machinery accidents, falling objects, or workplace incidents.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Pulseless electrical activity (PEA) refers to a situation in which an electrocardiogram (ECG) shows electrical activity in the heart, but there is no effective mechanical activity and no palpable pulse. PEA can result from various underlying conditions that impair cardiac function or compromise circulation.
A. Hypertension: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not typically a direct cause of PEA. While uncontrolled hypertension can contribute to cardiovascular disease and increase the risk of cardiac events such as myocardial infarction, it is not a direct cause of PEA.
B. Hypovolemia: Hypovolemia, or low blood volume, is a common cause of PEA. Reduced circulating blood volume leads to decreased preload and inadequate filling of the heart chambers, impairing cardiac output. This can result in ineffective cardiac contractions and the development of PEA.
C. Hypoxia: Hypoxia, or inadequate oxygenation of tissues, is a significant cause of PEA. Insufficient oxygen delivery to the myocardium impairs cardiac function and can lead to ineffective cardiac contractions. Without adequate oxygenation, the heart is unable to generate sufficient mechanical force to maintain circulation, resulting in PEA.
D. Hyperkalemia: Hyperkalemia, or elevated levels of potassium in the blood, can cause PEA by disrupting cardiac electrical activity. Excessive potassium ions in the extracellular fluid alter the normal myocardial action potential, leading to cardiac conduction abnormalities and potential arrhythmias, including PEA.
E. Hypernatremia: Hypernatremia, or elevated levels of sodium in the blood, is not typically a direct cause of PEA. While severe hypernatremia can lead to neurological symptoms and dehydration, it does not directly impair cardiac electrical activity or mechanical function to the extent that it causes PEA.
F. Hyperthermia: Hyperthermia, or elevated body temperature, is not typically a direct cause of PEA. While extreme hyperthermia can lead to cardiovascular complications such as heat stroke, it is not a common cause of PEA unless it is associated with severe systemic metabolic derangements.
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