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 B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Dietary restrictions will not eventually allow the intake of gluten to resume. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and some oats. It causes damage to the small intestine in people with celiac disease. The only treatment for celiac disease is a lifelong gluten-free diet.
Choice B reason: This condition may cause secondary lactose intolerance. Lactose is a sugar found in milk and dairy products. It is broken down by an enzyme called lactase in the small intestine. People with celiac disease may have reduced levels of lactase due to the damage to the small intestine caused by gluten. This can lead to lactose intolerance, which is the inability to digest lactose properly. Symptoms of lactose intolerance include bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain after consuming dairy products.
Choice C reason: Nutritional therapy for this condition does not include limiting proteins and calories. People with celiac disease need adequate amounts of proteins and calories to maintain their health and prevent malnutrition. They also need to ensure that they get enough vitamins, minerals, and fiber from gluten-free sources.
Choice D reason: A normal diet cannot resume after a period of remission. Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that does not have a cure. Even if the symptoms improve or disappear, the damage to the small intestine can still occur if gluten is consumed. Therefore, a strict gluten-free diet must be followed for life.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Serum creatinine 3.5 mg/dL is high and indicates the need for further assessment. Creatinine is a waste product of muscle metabolism that is filtered by the kidneys. High creatinine levels can indicate kidney damage or impaired renal function.
Choice B reason: Hematocrit 45% is within the normal range (37-47% for women, 40-50% for men), and it does not indicate the need for further assessment. Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. Low hematocrit levels can indicate anemia, bleeding, or hemolysis.
Choice C reason: Blood urea nitrogen 18 mg/dL is within the normal range (7-20), and it does not indicate the need for further assessment. Blood urea nitrogen is a waste product of protein metabolism that is filtered by the kidneys. High blood urea nitrogen levels can indicate dehydration, kidney damage, or high protein intake.
Choice D reason: Sodium 140 mEq/L is within the normal range (135-145), and it does not indicate the need for further assessment. Sodium is an electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance, blood pressure, and nerve impulses. Low or high sodium levels can cause confusion, seizures, or coma.
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