A nurse is reviewing the diagnostic test results of an older adult female client who is preoperative for a knee arthroplasty. The nurse should notify the surgeon of which of the following results?

Hematocrit 40%

Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL

WBC count 20,000/mm3

Potassium 3.8 mEq/L

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A.   A hematocrit of 40% is within the normal range for females, which is typically around 37-47%. This result is not concerning and does not typically require immediate notification to the surgeon.
B.   A creatinine level of 0.9 mg/dL is within the normal range for adults (normal range varies slightly among laboratories but is generally around 0.5-1.1 mg/dL). This result indicates normal kidney function and does not require immediate notification.
C.   A white blood cell (WBC) count of 20,000/mm3 is elevated above the normal range, which is typically between 4,500-11,000/mm3. An elevated WBC count could indicate infection or inflammation. Given the client is preoperative, an elevated WBC count may suggest an underlying infection that needs to be addressed before proceeding with surgery. The nurse should notify the surgeon promptly so appropriate evaluation and management can be initiated.
D.   A potassium level of 3.8 mEq/L is within the normal range (normal range is generally 3.5-5.0 mEq/L). This result is not concerning and does not require immediate notification to the surgeon.

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Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]

Explanation

A. A back massage (A) can be soothing and may help with circulation, but it's not typically a priority immediately postoperative.
B. Teaching relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, guided imagery, or progressive muscle relaxation can help the client manage pain, reduce anxiety, and promote faster recovery. These techniques empower the client to actively participate in their comfort and recovery process.

C. Postoperative clients are at risk of developing respiratory complications such as atelectasis (partial lung collapse) due to shallow breathing. Coughing and deep breathing exercises help to expand lung volume, clear secretions, and prevent respiratory complications. It's important to encourage and assist the client in performing these exercises regularly.
D. Encouraging the client to turn every 4 hours helps prevent pressure ulcers and promotes good circulation, but turning might be more frequent depending on the surgery and the client's condition.
E. Pain management is crucial for postoperative comfort and recovery. Administering analgesics as needed helps to control pain effectively, which is essential for the client to participate in activities such as deep breathing, coughing, and moving, thereby reducing the risk of complications.

A. Patient with lung surgery has 20 ml/hr of urine output via catheter. B. Patient with appendix surgery has thready pulse and blood pressure is 90/60. C. Patient with knee surgery has approximated incision. D. Patient with femoral artery surgery has strong pedal pulse. E. Patient with bladder surgery has bloody urine within the first 12 hours.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]

Explanation

A. A urine output of 20 ml/hr is considered inadequate and may indicate decreased kidney perfusion or function. This client likely needs immediate assessment and intervention to address potential renal complications.
B. A patient with appendix surgery exhibiting a thready pulse and a blood pressure of 90/60 should be followed up immediately, as these signs can indicate shock, which is a medical emergency.
C. An approximated incision indicates that the wound edges are well-aligned and healing is progressing as expected. This does not typically warrant immediate follow-up unless there are signs of infection or other complications.
D. A strong pedal pulse suggests adequate blood flow distal to the surgical site. This is a positive finding and does not typically require immediate follow-up unless there are signs of vascular compromise or other complications.
E. A patient with bladder surgery having bloody urine within the first 12 hours can be expected, but if the bleeding is heavy or increases, it would warrant immediate follow-up.

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A nurse is reviewing the diagnostic test results of an older adult female client who is preoperative for a knee arthroplasty. The nurse should notify the surgeon of which of the following results?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is planning care for a client who is 4 hr postoperative. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care? (Select all that apply.)

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Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]

Explanation

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