A nurse is evaluating the laboratory findings of a client who has wound dehiscence following abdominal surgery. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing fluid volume deficit?
Potassium 3.5 mEq/L
Sodium 145 mEq/L
Hematocrit 53%
HbA1c 5%
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Potassium 3.5 mEq/L is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. Potassium is an electrolyte that regulates nerve and muscle function, acid-base balance, and fluid balance. Potassium level can be affected by various factors, such as diet, medication, kidney function, and dehydration.
Choice B reason: Sodium 145 mEq/L is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is 136 to 145 mEq/L. Sodium is an electrolyte that regulates blood pressure, blood volume, and fluid balance. Sodium level can be affected by various factors, such as diet, medication, kidney function, and fluid loss.
Choice C reason: Hematocrit 53% is a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is above the normal range, which is 38 to 50% for men and 34 to 46% for women. Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in the total blood volume. Hematocrit level can increase due to dehydration, which causes hemoconcentration or increased blood viscosity.
Choice D reason: HbA1c 5% is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is less than 5.7%. HbA1c is the percentage of hemoglobin that is attached to glucose. HbA1c level reflects the average blood glucose level over the past two to three months. HbA1c level can be affected by various factors, such as diabetes, anemia, and medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice Areason: Graham crackers are made from wheat flour, which contains gluten. Peanut butter is a good source of fat and protein, but it may also contain traces of gluten from cross-contamination.
Choice Breason: Poached eggs are a good source of protein, but wheat bagel contains gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Gluten can damage the small intestine and cause malabsorption, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in people with celiac disease.
Choice C reason: Rice cereal is gluten-free and a good source of carbohydrates. Sliced bananas are gluten-free and a good source of potassium, fiber, and vitamin C.
Choice D reason: Rye toast contains gluten, which can harm people with celiac disease. Herbal tea is gluten-free and can help with hydration, but it does not provide enough calories or nutrients.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: BMI of 18.5 is at the lower end of the normal range (18.5-24.9), but it does not indicate severe malnutrition.
Choice B reason: Potassium 3.7 mEq/L is within the normal range (3.5-5.0), and it does not indicate electrolyte imbalance due to malnutrition.
Choice C reason: Phosphorus 3.5 mg/dL is within the normal range (2.5-4.5), and it does not indicate mineral deficiency due to malnutrition.
Choice D reason: Albumin 2.5 g/dL is below the normal range (3.5-5.0), and it indicates protein deficiency due to malnutrition. Albumin is a major protein in blood plasma that helps maintain fluid balance, transport hormones, and fight infections. Low albumin levels can cause edema, weakness, infection, and poor wound healing.
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