A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving a continuous heparin infusion. Which of the following laboratory tests should the nurse review prior to adjusting the client's heparin?
aPTT
PT
INR
WBC count
The Correct Answer is A
A is correct because aPTT (activated partial thromboplastin time) measures the effectiveness of heparin therapy and guides dosage adjustments.
B is incorrect because PT (prothrombin time) measures the effectiveness of warfarin therapy, not heparin.
C is incorrect because INR (international normalized ratio) is a standardized version of PT that also monitors warfarin therapy, not heparin.
D is incorrect because WBC count (white blood cell count) measures the body's immune response and has no relation to heparin therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A is incorrect because documenting client tasks upon completion is an appropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that demonstrates accuracy and timeliness of documentation.
B is correct because starting a task then determining what supplies are needed is an inappropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that indicates poor planning and organization skills.
C is incorrect because completing a client assessment while infusing an IV antibiotic over 30 min is an appropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that demonstrates efficient use of time and multitasking ability.
D is incorrect because returning to the nurses' station after completing several tasks in the same location is an appropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that demonstrates effective prioritization and delegation skills.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Correct. The nurse should initiate continuous cardiac monitoring because a magnesium level of 2.7 mEq/L indicates hypermagnesemia, which can cause cardiac dysrhythmias, hypotension, and bradycardia.
B. Incorrect. The nurse should not administer potassium chloride to a client who has hypermagnesemia because it can worsen the condition by increasing the intracellular magnesium level and decreasing the serum calcium level.
C. Incorrect. The nurse should not provide a diet rich in legumes, nuts, and green vegetables to a client who has hypermagnesemia because these foods are high in magnesium and can increase the serum magnesium level.
D. Incorrect. The nurse should not monitor the client for tetany because tetany is a sign of hypomagnesemia, not hypermagnesemia. Hypomagnesemia can cause neuromuscular excitability, muscle spasms, and positive Chvostek's and Trousseau's signs.
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