A nurse is reviewing laboratory data from a client who has pulmonary embolism and is receiving IV heparin. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Platelets 74,000/mm3
White blood cell count 8,000/mm3
Partial thromboplastin time (PTT) 55 seconds
Hematocrit 45%
The Correct Answer is A
A. Platelets 74,000/mm: A platelet count of 74,000/mm³ is significantly lower than the normal range (typically 150,000 to 450,000/mm³). This could indicate heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a serious adverse effect of heparin therapy where the immune system forms antibodies against heparin bound to platelet factor 4, leading to a decrease in platelets and increased risk of thrombosis. This is a critical finding and should be reported immediately to the provider for further evaluation and potential adjustment of the treatment plan.
B. White blood cell count 8,000/mm³: This is within the normal range (typically 4,000 to 11,000/mm³) and does not indicate an immediate problem related to heparin therapy or pulmonary embolism management.
C. Partial thromboplastin time (PTT) 55 seconds: While slightly elevated, this PTT is within the therapeutic range for a patient receiving IV heparin (typically 1.5 to 2.5 times the normal control value, or about 45 to 70 seconds). This indicates that the heparin is having the desired anticoagulant effect.
D. Hematocrit 45%: This is within the normal range for adults (typically 38-50% for men and 35-45% for women) and does not indicate an immediate concern related to heparin therapy or pulmonary embolism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Echinacea: Potential anticoagulant effects may increase the risk of bleeding when combined with warfarin.
B. Garlic: Garlic supplements have anticoagulant properties, which can increase the risk of bleeding when combined with warfarin.
C. Ginseng: Ginseng has antiplatelet effects, increasing the risk of bleeding when combined with warfarin.
D. Valerian: Valerian may interact with warfarin, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding.
E. Ginger: Ginger has antiplatelet effects, which can increase the risk of bleeding when combined with warfarin.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"A"}
Explanation
a. Hemostasis: Hemostasis refers to the process of stopping bleeding or preventing excessive blood loss. It involves several steps, including vasoconstriction, platelet aggregation, and clot formation. Hemostasis is the correct answer because it directly addresses the stopping of blood flow to protect the body from injury.
b. Thrombolytics: Thrombolytics are medications used to dissolve blood clots. They are not the natural mechanism for stopping blood flow. Thrombolytics are not the correct answer in this context.
c. Hematopoiesis: Hematopoiesis is the process of forming blood cells (including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets) in the bone marrow. It is essential for maintaining blood cell populations but does not directly stop blood flow. Hematopoiesis is not related to stopping blood flow.
d. Anticoagulation: Anticoagulation refers to preventing blood clot formation. While it is important for certain medical conditions, it does not directly stop blood flow. Anticoagulation is not the primary mechanism for stopping bleeding.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
