A nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a preterm infant who has anemia of prematurity.
Which of the following values should the nurse report to the provider?
Hemoglobin 10 g/dL
Hematocrit 30%
Reticulocyte count 2%
Platelet count 150,000/mm3.
The Correct Answer is C
Reticulocyte count 2%.
A reticulocyte count measures the percentage of immature red blood cells (RBCs) in the blood. A low reticulocyte count indicates that the bone marrow is not producing enough RBCs, which is a characteristic feature of anemia of prematurity (AOP). A normal reticulocyte count for preterm infants is 3-6%.
Choice A is wrong because hemoglobin 10 g/dL is within the normal range for preterm infants.
Hemoglobin is the protein in RBCs that carries oxygen.
A low hemoglobin level indicates anemia.
Choice B is wrong because hematocrit 30% is within the normal range for preterm infants.
Hematocrit is the percentage of blood volume that is occupied by RBCs.
A low hematocrit level indicates anemia.
Choice D is wrong because platelet count 150,000/mm3 is within the normal range for preterm infants.
Platelets are cell fragments that help with blood clotting.
A low platelet count indicates thrombocytopenia, which is a different condition from anemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Encouraging frequent breastfeeding.
This is because breastfeeding provides glucose to the newborn baby, which can help prevent or treat hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).Hypoglycemia can cause problems such as shakiness, blue tint to the skin, and breathing and feeding problems.
Choice A is wrong because administering IV insulin would lower the blood sugar level even more, which could be dangerous for the baby.
Choice C is wrong because monitoring blood pressure is not directly related to hypoglycemia.
Blood pressure may be affected by other factors such as stress, infection, or dehydration.
Choice D is wrong because administering a hypertonic saline solution would increase the sodium level in the blood, which could cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
A hypertonic saline solution is not a source of glucose for the baby.
Normal ranges for blood glucose levels in newborns are between 47 to 85 mg/dL.Hypoglycemia is defined as blood glucose below 47 mg/dL.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This is because postmature babies lose the protective vernix that covers their skin in utero, and their skin becomes dry and cracked.Postmature babies also have less subcutaneous fat, which makes them look thin and wrinkled.
Choice A is wrong because postmature babies have less body fat than term babies, not more.They use up their fat stores to survive in the womb beyond 42 weeks of gestation.
Choice B is wrong because postmature babies have well-developed breast buds and areola, not flat ones.Breast development is a sign of fetal maturity that occurs around 36 weeks of gestation.
Choice C is wrong because postmature babies have less flexibility in their joints and muscles, not more.They have less amniotic fluid to cushion their movements, and their bones become more ossified as they grow older.
Normal ranges for gestational age are 37 to 42 weeks.Babies born before 37 weeks are considered preterm, and babies born after 42 weeks are considered postmature.
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.
