A nurse is caring for a client who has chronic renal disease and is receiving therapy with epoetin alfa. Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse review for an indication of a therapeutic effect of the medication?
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
The hematocrit (Hct)
The platelet count
The leukocyte count
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is not directly affected by epoetin alfa therapy, which is used to treat anemia.
Choice B reason: Epoetin alfa stimulates erythropoiesis, leading to an increase in red blood cell production, which would be reflected in an increased hematocrit level.
Choice C reason: The platelet count is not directly affected by epoetin alfa therapy.
Choice D reason: The leukocyte count is not directly affected by epoetin alfa therapy.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Hypernatremia, which is an abnormally high level of sodium in the blood, is not typically associated with prerenal AKI. Prerenal AKI is often related to hypovolemia, which can lead to hyponatremia rather than hypernatremia.
Choice B reason: Hypophosphatemia, or low levels of phosphate in the blood, is not a common finding in prerenal AKI. Phosphate levels are more often affected in intrinsic renal diseases or refeeding syndrome.
Choice C reason: Hypercalcemia, or high levels of calcium in the blood, is not commonly seen in prerenal AKI. It is more frequently associated with malignancies or hyperparathyroidism.
Choice D reason: Hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the blood, is a common electrolyte imbalance in prerenal AKI. This occurs due to decreased renal perfusion and the kidney's reduced ability to excrete potassium.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: A pH of 7.26 indicates acidosis, but an HCO3 of 24 and PaCO2 of 46 suggest a respiratory cause rather than metabolic, which is not typical for AKI.
Choice B reason: A pH of 7.49 indicates alkalosis, and with an HCO3 of 30 and PaCO2 of 40, this suggests metabolic alkalosis, which is not expected in AKI.
Choice C reason: A pH of 7.49 indicates alkalosis. An HCO3 of 24 is normal, and a PaCO2 of 30 would suggest respiratory alkalosis, not typically associated with AKI.
Choice D reason: A pH of 7.26 indicates acidosis, and with an HCO3 of 14, this suggests metabolic acidosis, which is consistent with AKI. The PaCO2 of 30 indicates a compensatory respiratory response to the metabolic acidosis. This ABG result aligns with the expected findings in a patient with AKI, where there is an accumulation of acids and a decrease in bicarbonate due to the kidneys' inability to filter and excrete hydrogen ions effectively.
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