A nurse is reviewing laboratory findings for three clients.
Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse expect for a client who has cirrhosis?
Elevated amylase
Decreased bilirubin
Elevated lipase
Elevated ammonia
The Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D, Elevated ammonia
Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease characterized by the progressive scarring of liver tissue. As liver function becomes impaired, there is a decrease in the liver's ability to metabolize and detoxify substances, including ammonia. Elevated ammonia levels in the blood, known as hyperammonemia, are commonly seen in clients with advanced cirrhosis.
Elevated amylase in (option A) is incorrect because it is typically seen in conditions affecting the pancreas, such as pancreatitis, and is not specific to cirrhosis.
Decreased bilirubin levels in (option B) is incorrect because they are not expected in cirrhosis. In fact, bilirubin levels are often elevated in cirrhosis due to impaired liver function and the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood.
Elevated lipase in (option C) is incorrect because it is typically seen in pancreatic disorders, such as pancreatitis, and is not specific to cirrhosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A case manager is a member of the interprofessional team who specializes in coordinating and facilitating access to healthcare services and resources for individuals and families. They can assist the client in identifying and accessing financial assistance programs or resources that can help with the cost of baby formula.
Case managers have knowledge of community resources and can provide guidance and support in navigating the system to meet the client's needs. While a nutritionist may provide guidance on infant nutrition, they may not have direct access to financial assistance programs or resources. The primary care provider and pediatric nurse practitioner may be involved in the client's care but may not have the specific expertise in addressing financial concerns.
Therefore, referring the client to a case manager is the most appropriate action in this situation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The plantar Babinski reflex is assessed by stroking the sole of the foot from the heel towards the toes. A normal response is the flexion or curling of the toes. An abnormal response, known as a positive Babinski sign, is the extension and fanning out of the toes, which indicates an upper motor neuron lesion.
"Place your foot in my hand and I will tap the back of your heel": This instruction is more relevant to testing the Achilles tendon reflex, where the nurse taps the back of the heel to elicit a plantarflexion response.
"Sit on the edge of the bed while I tap your knee": This instruction is more relevant to testing the patellar reflex, also known as the knee-jerk reflex. The nurse taps the patellar tendon just below the kneecap to elicit a reflexive contraction of the quadriceps muscle.
"Relax your arm across your chest and I will test your elbow extension": This instruction is more relevant to testing the triceps reflex, where the nurse taps the triceps tendon to elicit a reflexive extension of the elbow.
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