A nurse is evaluating the laboratory report for a client who has severe diarrhea and a fever. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse identify as an indication that the client has a parasitic infection rather than a bacterial infection?
Decreased neutrophil count
Elevated eosinophil count
Increased hemoglobin level
Elevated platelet count
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: A decreased neutrophil count is not typically associated with parasitic infections. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that responds to bacterial infections, so a decrease might be seen in viral infections or certain inflammatory conditions, but not specifically indicative of a parasitic infection.
Choice B reason: An elevated eosinophil count is often associated with parasitic infections, especially those involving tissue invasion. Eosinophils are white blood cells that play a crucial role in the immune response against parasitic infections. Normal eosinophil counts range from 0 to 500 cells per microliter of blood.
Choice C reason: An increased hemoglobin level is generally not related to the presence of a parasitic infection. Hemoglobin levels can be affected by various conditions, but they do not serve as a specific indicator for parasitic infections.
Choice D reason: An elevated platelet count can occur in various conditions, including inflammatory states and infections, but it is not a specific marker for parasitic infections. Platelets are components of blood that help with clotting and would not be used to differentiate between bacterial and parasitic infections.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: A decreased neutrophil count is not typically associated with parasitic infections. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that responds to bacterial infections, so a decrease might be seen in viral infections or certain inflammatory conditions, but not specifically indicative of a parasitic infection.
Choice B reason: An elevated eosinophil count is often associated with parasitic infections, especially those involving tissue invasion. Eosinophils are white blood cells that play a crucial role in the immune response against parasitic infections. Normal eosinophil counts range from 0 to 500 cells per microliter of blood.
Choice C reason: An increased hemoglobin level is generally not related to the presence of a parasitic infection. Hemoglobin levels can be affected by various conditions, but they do not serve as a specific indicator for parasitic infections.
Choice D reason: An elevated platelet count can occur in various conditions, including inflammatory states and infections, but it is not a specific marker for parasitic infections. Platelets are components of blood that help with clotting and would not be used to differentiate between bacterial and parasitic infections.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is correct because staying well hydrated can help prevent gout attacks and kidney stones, which can be a side effect of allopurinol.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Aspirin can interfere with allopurinol and may increase the risk of gout attacks; therefore, it is not recommended without consulting a healthcare provider.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Allopurinol does not need to be taken on an empty stomach; it can be taken with or without food.
Choice D reason: This is correct. Allopurinol should not be crushed or chewed; it should be swallowed whole.
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