A nurse is caring for an older adult who has been experiencing severe Clostridium difficile- related diarrhea. When reviewing the patient's most recent laboratory tests, the nurse should prioritize which of the following?
Creatinine level
Potassium level
White blood cell levels
Hemoglobin level
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Monitoring creatinine levels is important, but it may not be the top priority in this situation.
Choice B reason:
This statement is correct. Given the severe diarrhea associated with Clostridium difficile infection, monitoring potassium levels is crucial to identify and address potential electrolyte imbalances, which can lead to serious complications.
Choice C reason:
Monitoring white blood cell levels is important in the context of infection, but potassium levels are more directly relevant to managing severe diarrhea associated with Clostridium difficile.
Choice D reason:
Hemoglobin levels are important for assessing anemia, but in this context, monitoring potassium levels takes precedence due to the potential for electrolyte imbalances from severe diarrhea.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
While diarrhea can be a symptom of peptic ulcer disease, it is not typically considered a priority over more severe symptoms.
Choice B reason:
Dyspepsia (indigestion) is a common symptom of peptic ulcer disease, but it is not the priority over more concerning symptoms.
Choice C reason:
Epigastric discomfort is a symptom of peptic ulcer disease, but it is not the priority over more severe symptoms like hematemesis.
Choice D reason:
Hematemesis (vomiting blood) is a serious and potentially life-threatening symptom of peptic ulcer disease. It is the top priority for assessment and intervention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
- A: This response minimizes the client's feelings and may make them feel unheard. It's important for healthcare providers to acknowledge a patient's feelings and provide reassurance in a more empathetic manner.
- B: This response delays addressing the client's concerns and may increase his anxiety. Consent is important, but it should not be a barrier to discussing care and addressing concerns.
- C: This response is factual but does not address the client's immediate concern about pain. It's crucial to address the client's fears directly rather than deflecting to the procedure's necessity.
- D: This response directly addresses the client's concern about pain by informing him of the sedative, which is a common practice to reduce discomfort during a colonoscopy. It provides reassurance and factual information about the procedure's process.
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