A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for four clients. Which of the following results is the priority for the nurse to report to the provider?
WBC 11,000/mm² in a client who is starting treatment for a methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection.
Serum pH 7.25 in a client who has type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Hematocrit 26% in a client who has sickle cell disease.
Urine specific gravity 1.032 in a client who is diagnosed with dehydration.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
An elevated WBC count (11,000/mm²) in a client starting treatment for MRSA infection may indicate an inflammatory response, but it is expected in this scenario, and the priority is not as high as other critical lab values.
Choice B rationale:
A serum pH of 7.25 indicates acidosis, which is a potentially life-threatening condition. In type 1 diabetes mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a common complication that can lead to metabolic acidosis. This lab result is a priority as it requires immediate attention.
Choice C rationale:
Hematocrit of 26% in a client with sickle cell disease might be low, but it is not the priority over the critically abnormal lab value of serum pH in option B.
Choice D rationale:
A urine specific gravity of 1.032 in a client diagnosed with dehydration is elevated, indicating concentrated urine due to dehydration. While dehydration is concerning, it is not as high-priority as the potentially life-threatening acidosis in option B.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
(Fluticasone) Fluticasone is a corticosteroid inhaler used for the long-term management of asthma symptoms and prevention of asthma attacks. It is not suitable for treating acute asthma
attacks. Therefore, this is not the correct choice for medications to treat an acute asthma attack.
Choice B rationale:
(Albuterol) Albuterol is a short-acting beta-agonist bronchodilator and the preferred medication for relieving acute asthma symptoms and treating asthma attacks. It works by quickly relaxing the airway muscles, making it easier to breathe during an asthma attack. Therefore, this is the correct choice for medications to treat an acute asthma attack.
Choice C rationale:
(Salmeterol) Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-agonist bronchodilator used for the prevention of asthma symptoms but should not be used for treating acute asthma attacks. It has a slower onset of action compared to short-acting beta-agonists like albuterol. Therefore, this is not the correct choice for medications to treat an acute asthma attack.
Choice D rationale:
(Beclomethasone) Beclomethasone is a corticosteroid inhaler used for long-term asthma management and prevention of asthma symptoms but is not appropriate for treating acute asthma attacks. Therefore, this is not the correct choice for medications to treat an acute asthma attack.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The client's daily peak expiratory flow (PEF) measures 85% above personal best.
Choice A rationale:
Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-agonist used to treat asthma. Improvement in the client's daily peak expiratory flow (PEF) of 85% above their personal best indicates effective bronchodilation and better asthma control.
Choice B rationale:
ABGs showing a pH level of 7.32 are not indicative of the effectiveness of salmeterol. ABG values assess the client's acid-base balance and gas exchange, but they do not directly reflect the action of the medication.
Choice C rationale:
A decrease in forced expiratory volume after treatment with medication indicates a lack of response to the therapy, not an effective outcome. It suggests the medication is not adequately controlling the client's asthma symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
Wheezing limited to expiration is not a clear indicator of medication effectiveness. Wheezing can be present in various respiratory conditions and is not solely associated with asthma control. Exhibit. The correct answer is choice B: Increase the rate of the infusion by 160 units/hr.
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