A nurse is reviewing the electronic medical record of a female client, age 31, at 36 weeks of gestation in the antepartum unit.
Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options.
After reviewing the information in the client’s EMR, the nurse determines that the client is at risk for developing
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"A"}
The client is at risk for developing HELLP syndrome as evidenced by Liver enzymes.
Rationale for correct answers:
HELLP syndrome (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, Low Platelets) is a severe form of preeclampsia often presenting in the third trimester. This client has thrombocytopenia (platelets 100,000/mm³; normal 150,000–400,000/mm³), elevated blood urea nitrogen (25 mg/dL; normal 10–20 mg/dL), borderline elevated creatinine (1.1 mg/dL; normal 0.5–1.0 mg/dL), and elevated uric acid (9.8 mg/dL; normal 2.7–7.3 mg/dL), which suggests possible renal impairment and oxidative stress typical in HELLP. Mild epigastric discomfort also aligns with liver involvement. Although liver enzymes are not listed in the labs here, the question implies liver enzyme elevation as a hallmark finding to confirm HELLP, which is essential to monitor. Hemolysis would typically manifest as anemia, but hemoglobin and hematocrit are near normal. Prompt recognition and further testing of liver enzymes (AST, ALT) are critical for diagnosis and management.
Rationale for incorrect Response 1 options:
Chorioamnionitis is an infection of the amniotic sac, usually presenting with fever, uterine tenderness, and elevated WBC, which are not present here. Gestational diabetes is characterized by hyperglycemia, but the client’s blood glucose is only mildly elevated and not diagnostic. Pyelonephritis involves urinary tract infection with systemic symptoms like fever and flank pain, absent in this case.
Rationale for incorrect Response 2 options:
Amniotic membrane status is unrelated here, as there is no rupture or infection evidence. Ketonuria reflects starvation or diabetes, which is not indicated. Blood glucose is only mildly elevated and insufficient to diagnose gestational diabetes or explain current symptoms.
Take home points:
- HELLP syndrome involves low platelets, elevated liver enzymes, and hemolysis, often with epigastric pain.
- Early lab monitoring including liver enzymes is vital for timely diagnosis.
- Elevated BUN, creatinine, and uric acid can signal renal impairment in HELLP.
- Differentiate HELLP from infections or gestational diabetes by clinical presentation and specific labs.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The vaginal contraceptive ring is designed for cyclic use, specifically to be left inserted for 3 consecutive weeks, followed by a 1-week ring-free interval. This regimen allows for a withdrawal bleed during the ring-free week, mimicking a natural menstrual cycle while maintaining contraceptive efficacy by providing continuous hormone release for 21 days.
Choice B rationale
Body weight fluctuations of 4.5 kg (10 lb) do not significantly impact the effectiveness of the vaginal contraceptive ring. The ring delivers a localized and consistent dose of hormones that is not dependent on systemic absorption influenced by minor weight changes. Therefore, contacting a provider for a new ring due to this weight change is unnecessary.
Choice C rationale
The vaginal contraceptive ring should not be washed with soap and water after each use. The ring is a single-use, disposable device designed to be inserted and remain in place for the full 3-week duration. Washing it could potentially degrade the material or interfere with the controlled release of hormones, compromising its efficacy.
Choice D rationale
The vaginal contraceptive ring does not need to be inserted immediately before sexual intercourse. It provides continuous contraceptive protection as long as it is inserted and used correctly according to the 3-week in, 1-week out schedule. Its efficacy is not tied to the timing of individual sexual acts.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) screening is typically performed when the newborn is between 24 and 48 hours of age, or just prior to discharge if that occurs earlier. Performing the test too early, such as between 6 and 12 hours, might yield false negative results due to the persistence of transitional circulation.
Choice B rationale
The results of the CCHD screening are typically available immediately, or within a few minutes, as it involves pulse oximetry readings. There is no waiting period of 1 to 2 weeks for the results, allowing for prompt identification and management of potential cardiac defects, preventing delays in care.
Choice C rationale
The CCHD screening specifically compares the oxygen saturation in the newborn's right hand (pre-ductal) and either foot (post-ductal). A significant difference between these two readings can indicate a shunt or obstruction within the heart or great vessels, suggesting a potential critical congenital heart defect.
Choice D rationale
Collecting a blood sample from the newborn's heel is the procedure for the newborn metabolic screening, which screens for various genetic and metabolic disorders, not the critical congenital heart disease screening. The CCHD screening is a non-invasive test performed using pulse oximetry.
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