A nurse is caring for a client who has HIV.
Which of the following laboratory values is the nurse's priority?
WBC 5,000/mm³.
Platelets 150,000/mm³.
O Positive Western blot test.
CD4-T-cell count 180 cells/mm.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
A WBC count of 5,000/mm³ is within the normal range (4,500 to 11,000 cells/mm³) and is not a priority.
Choice B rationale:
A platelet count of 150,000/mm³ is within the normal range (150,000 to 450,000/mm³) and is not a priority.
Choice C rationale:
A positive Western blot test confirms HIV infection, but it is not a priority in this case.
Choice D rationale:
A CD4-T-cell count of 180 cells/mm³ is below the normal range (500 to 1,500 cells/mm³), indicating severe immune system damage in a client with HIV. This is the nurse’s priority.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is: A
Choice A Reason: Hypokalemia refers to a lower-than-normal level of potassium in the bloodstream. Normal potassium levels are typically between 3.5 and 5.0 mEq/L. In the context of nephrotic syndrome and high-dose corticosteroid therapy, hypokalemia can occur due to increased urinary potassium losses caused by corticosteroid-induced alterations in kidney function. Corticosteroids can promote the excretion of potassium, leading to a deficiency.
Choice B Reason: Hypomagnesemia is a condition where there is a magnesium deficiency in the blood, with normal levels usually ranging between 1.7 and 2.2 mg/dL. While it can occur in nephrotic syndrome due to urinary losses of proteins that bind magnesium, it is not typically associated with corticosteroid therapy. Therefore, it is less likely to be monitored in this specific scenario.
Choice C Reason: Hypermagnesemia indicates an abnormally high level of magnesium in the blood. This condition is relatively rare and is not commonly associated with nephrotic syndrome or corticosteroid therapy. It is more often related to renal failure or excessive intake of magnesium-containing medications or supplements.
Choice D Reason: Hyperkalemia is characterized by an elevated level of potassium in the blood, with normal levels being 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. While hyperkalemia can occur in nephrotic syndrome due to the loss of albumin in the urine, which can affect calcium and potassium binding, corticosteroid therapy typically causes a decrease in potassium levels, making hypokalemia a more relevant concern in this context.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Positive Kernig’s sign is a clinical sign of meningitis, not specifically increased ICP12.
Choice B rationale:
Photophobia, or light sensitivity, is a symptom of meningitis but does not specifically indicate increased ICP12.
Choice C rationale:
Nuchal rigidity, or neck stiffness, is another symptom of meningitis, not a specific indicator of increased ICP12.
Choice D rationale:
Restlessness can be a sign of increased ICP as it may indicate changes in mental status, a key symptom of increased ICP12.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.