A nurse is evaluating a client's laboratory results. The nurse should recognize that an increase in the client's prostate-specific antigen (PSA) laboratory value is indicative of which of the following diagnoses?
Prostatic cancer
Colon cancer
Liver cancer
Breast cancer
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: An increased prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level is primarily indicative of prostatic conditions, including prostate cancer. PSA is a protein produced by both normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels can be a sign of prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostatitis. It is an important marker used in the screening and monitoring of prostate cancer.
Choice B reason: Colon cancer does not typically result in elevated PSA levels. Instead, colon cancer is often associated with markers like carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). PSA is specific to prostate tissue, and its elevation is not related to colon cancer.
Choice C reason: Liver cancer is not associated with increased PSA levels. Liver function tests, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and imaging studies are more relevant in the diagnosis and monitoring of liver cancer. PSA levels do not provide information about liver cancer.
Choice D reason: Breast cancer does not affect PSA levels. Breast cancer markers include CA 15-3, CA 27.29, and others specific to breast tissue. PSA is a prostate-specific marker and is not used in the context of breast cancer diagnosis or monitoring.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, so it is more likely to cause elevated potassium levels rather than decreased levels.
Choice B reason: Chloride levels are not typically affected in a predictable pattern with the use of spironolactone or in liver failure with ascites.
Choice C reason: Phosphate levels are not commonly altered by spironolactone or in ascites, and any changes would depend on other metabolic factors.
Choice D reason: Spironolactone can lead to decreased sodium levels due to its action as a diuretic that promotes sodium excretion while retaining potassium. This is particularly relevant in clients with liver failure and ascites, where fluid and electrolyte management is crucial.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Tenderness in the left upper abdomen is not typically associated with an obstruction of the common bile duct. Pain and tenderness would more commonly be located in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, where the liver and gallbladder are situated.
Choice B reason: Fatty stools (steatorrhea) are a common finding in bile duct obstruction. The lack of bile entering the intestine prevents the digestion and absorption of fats, leading to pale, greasy stools that float.
Choice C reason: Straw-colored urine is normal and does not indicate a bile duct obstruction. In cases of bile duct obstruction, the urine is often dark-colored due to the excretion of bilirubin.
Choice D reason: Ecchymosis of the extremities is not related to bile duct obstruction and is more indicative of bleeding disorders or trauma.
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