A nurse is caring for a client who is 8 hr postoperative following a left hip arthroplasty. Which of the following laboratory values indicates the nurse should notify the provider?
Blood glucose 98 mg/dL
BUN 18 mg/dL
Hemoglobin 8.6 g/dL
Potassium 3.5 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A: This is incorrect because blood glucose 98 mg/dL is within the normal range of 70 to 110 mg/dL. The nurse does not need to notify the provider for this value.
Choice B: This is incorrect because BUN 18 mg/dL is within the normal range of 10 to 20 mg/dL. The nurse does not need to notify the provider for this value.
Choice C: This is correct because hemoglobin 8.6 g/dL is below the normal range of 12 to 18 g/dL. The nurse should notify the provider for this value as it indicates anemia, which can be caused by blood loss during surgery or impaired bone marrow function.
Choice D: This is incorrect because potassium 3.5 mEq/L is within the normal range of 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. The nurse does not need to notify the provider for this value.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Filling the pad with sterile water is not necessary, as tap water can be used for an aquathermia pad without increasing the risk of infection or contamination.
Choice B reason: Using safety pins to secure the pad in place is not appropriate, as they can puncture or damage the pad and cause leakage or electric shock.
Choice C reason: Applying the pad for 45 min at a time is not recommended, as it can cause skin burns or tissue damage due to prolonged exposure to heat. The nurse should apply the pad for no more than 20 min at a time and check the skin frequently for signs of redness or blistering.
Choice D reason: Covering the pad prior to use is an important action, as it can prevent direct contact between the pad and the skin and reduce the risk of burns or irritation. The nurse should use a towel or a cloth to cover the pad before applying it to the affected area.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: WBC count 10,000/mm³ is within the normal range of 4,500 to 11,000/mm³ and does not indicate any infection or inflammation.
Choice B reason: BUN 20 mg/dL is within the normal range of 10 to 20 mg/dL and does not indicate any renal impairment or dehydration.
Choice C reason: Creatinine 2.3 mg/dL is above the normal range of 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL and indicates renal dysfunction or damage, which can be caused by blood loss, hypotension, or nephrotoxic drugs during surgery. The nurse should report this value to the provider and monitor the client for signs of acute kidney injury, such as oliguria, edema, or electrolyte imbalances.
Choice D reason: Hematocrit 41% is within the normal range of 37% to 47% for females and does not indicate any anemia or polycythemia.
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