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 D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Determine previous coping skills used by the client is not appropriate. Assessing the client's previous coping skills is an essential step in the assessment phase of the therapeutic relationship, not specifically during the orientation phase. This information helps the nurse to understand the client's coping mechanisms and identify potential areas for improvement or support.
Choice B reason:
Facilitate the client's problem-solving skills is not appropriate the nurse may work on facilitating the client's problem-solving skills throughout the therapeutic relationship, including during the working phase. During this phase, the nurse and client collaborate to explore and address the client's concerns and challenges.
Choice C reason:
Assisting the client in expressing alternative behaviours is not appropriate. This action may also be part of the working phase, where the nurse helps the client explore alternative behaviours and coping strategies to address their issues and challenges.
Choice D reason:
The orientation phase is the initial stage of the therapeutic relationship where the nurse and the client get to know each other and establish the groundwork for their working relationship. During this phase, it is essential to clarify the roles and responsibilities of both the nurse and the client to ensure a clear understanding of each other's expectations.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason
While thinning of secretions can be a positive sign, it's not always visible. A decrease in peak inspiratory pressure is a more objective indicator of improved airway patency.
Choice B reason.
Peak inspiratory pressure is the maximum pressure required to push air into the lungs. If suctioning is effective, it will remove secretions and reduce airway resistance, leading to a decrease in peak inspiratory pressure.
Choice C reason:
While a productive cough can indicate that secretions are being moved, it doesn't directly measure the effectiveness of suctioning.
Choice D reason:
Flattening of the artificial airway cuff: Flattening of the artificial airway cuff is not a relevant indicator of the effectiveness of suctioning. The cuff of an endotracheal tube is inflated to prevent air leaks around the tube and to maintain proper ventilation. It is not directly related to the effectiveness of suctioning.
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