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 B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Blood in the urine (hematuria) is not typically associated with cirrhosis. It may be related to other underlying conditions.
Choice B reason:
Spider angiomas (also known as spider nevi) are expected findings in clients with cirrhosis.
They are small, dilated blood vessels near the surface of the skin that resemble a spider's web. They can be found on the face, neck, upper trunk, and arms.
Choice C reason:
Tarry stools (melena) can occur in individuals with gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be a complication of cirrhosis. However, it is not a specific finding for cirrhosis itself.
Choice D reason:
Moist skin is not a characteristic finding associated with cirrhosis. It may be related to other factors such as environmental humidity or individual factors like sweating.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Avoiding chemicals that are toxic to the liver is a valid recommendation for liver health, but it is not specific to preventing hepatitis E virus infection.
Choice B reason:
Limiting alcohol intake is an important measure for maintaining liver health, but it is not a specific prevention measure for hepatitis E virus.
Choice C reason:
Wearing a condom during sexual contact is an important measure to prevent the transmission of certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but hepatitis E is primarily transmitted through contaminated water and not through sexual contact.
Choice D reason:
Following proper hand-washing techniques is a crucial preventive measure for hepatitis E virus. This virus is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, often via contaminated water or food. Proper hand hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.
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