A nurse is reviewing the laboratory data of a patient who is scheduled for a liver biopsy. Which of the following values should the nurse report to the provider?
Platelets 60,000/mm (150,000 to 400,000/mm)
Ammonia 55 mcg/dL (10 to 80 mcg/dL)
Aspartate aminotransferase 34 units/L (0 to 34 units/L)
Bilirubin 1.0 mg/dL (0.3 to 1.0 mg/dL) .
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A.
Choice A rationale
A platelet count of 60,000/mm is significantly lower than the normal range of 150,000 to 400,000/mm. Platelets are crucial for blood clotting, and a low count can increase the risk of bleeding, which is a serious concern for a patient scheduled for a liver biopsy. Therefore, the nurse should report this value to the provider.
Choice B rationale
An ammonia level of 55 mcg/dL falls within the normal range of 10 to 80 mcg/dL1. Ammonia is a byproduct of protein metabolism and is converted to urea in the liver for excretion. Normal levels do not typically pose a concern for liver biopsy.
Choice C rationale
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme found in various tissues, including the liver. An AST level of 34 units/L is at the upper limit of the normal range (0 to 34 units/L)1. While it’s
important to monitor, it does not necessarily need to be reported to the provider before a liver biopsy if there are no other signs of liver disease.
Choice D rationale
A bilirubin level of 1.0 mg/dL is within the normal range (0.3 to 1.0 mg/dL)1. Bilirubin is a waste product from the breakdown of red blood cells and is processed by the liver. Normal levels indicate that the liver is functioning properly in this regard.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice C rationale
Placing the client in Fowler's position (semi-upright position) facilitates optimal chest expansion and improves ventilation by allowing the diaphragm to move more effectively and reducing the pressure on the lungs from abdominal contents. This position helps in maximizing oxygenation and reducing respiratory distress. The other positions—supine, prone, and Trendelenburg—do not offer the same level of chest expansion and can exacerbate breathing difficulties.
The correct answer is to place the client in a position that allows for maximum chest expansion and oxygenation. This is often the upright or Fowler’s position.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Applying mystatin cream to the blistered areas is not typically recommended for herpes zoster lesions. Mystatin is an antifungal medication, and herpes zoster is caused by a virus, not a fungus.
Choice B rationale
Implementing contact precautions is recommended for patients with widespread herpes zoster lesions. This helps to prevent the spread of the virus to other people.
Choice C rationale
Using warm compresses on the crusted lesions is not typically recommended. While warm compresses can help with some skin conditions, they are not usually part of the care plan for herpes zoster.
Choice D rationale
Administering the shingles vaccine is not typically done once a patient already has widespread herpes zoster lesions. The vaccine is used to prevent shingles, not to treat active cases.
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