A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client with gestational hypertension who has been diagnosed with HELLP syndrome.

Which of the following findings would the nurse expect to see?

Hemoglobin 12 g/dL, platelets 150,000/mm3, AST 20 U/L, ALT 18 U/L

Hemoglobin 10 g/dL, platelets 100,000/mm3, AST 40 U/L, ALT 35 U/L

Hemoglobin 8 g/dL, platelets 50,000/mm3, AST 80 U/L, ALT 70 U/L

Hemoglobin 6 g/dL, platelets 25,000/mm3, AST 120 U/L, ALT 100 U/L

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

The correct answer is choice D. Hemoglobin 6 g/dL, platelets 25,000/mm3, AST 120 U/L, ALT 100 U/L.

This is because HELLP syndrome is a pregnancy complication that causes hemolysis (breaking down of red blood cells), elevated liver enzymes (indicating liver injury), and low platelet count (impairing blood clotting).

Choice A is wrong because hemoglobin 12 g/dL, platelets 150,000/mm3, AST 20 U/L, ALT 18 U/L are all within normal ranges and do not indicate HELLP syndrome.

Choice B is wrong because hemoglobin 10 g/dL, platelets 100,000/mm3, AST 40 U/L, ALT 35 U/L are mildly abnormal and may suggest mild preeclampsia but not HELLP syndrome.

Choice C is wrong because hemoglobin 8 g/dL, platelets 50,000/mm3, AST 80 U/L, ALT 70 U/L are moderately abnormal and may suggest moderate preeclampsia or incomplete HELLP syndrome but not full HELLP syndrome.

Normal ranges for these laboratory tests are:

• Hemoglobin: 11.5 to 16.5 g/dL for women.

• Platelets: 150,000 to 450,000/mm3 for adults.

• AST: 10 to 40 U/L for adults.

• ALT: 7 to 56 U/L for adults.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Methyldopa is a drug that lowers blood pressure by reducing the activity of the sympathetic nervous system.

One of the possible side effects of methyldopa is hypotension, which means abnormally low blood pressure.Hypotension can cause dizziness, fainting, and shock.

Choice A) Bradycardia is wrong because methyldopa does not affect the heart rate directly.Bradycardia means a slow heart rate, which can be caused by other drugs or conditions.

Choice C) Hyperkalemia is wrong because methyldopa does not affect the potassium levels in the blood.Hyperkalemia means high potassium levels, which can be caused by kidney problems or other drugs.

Choice D) Hyperglycemia is wrong because methyldopa does not affect the glucose levels in the blood.Hyperglycemia means high glucose levels, which can be caused by diabetes or other conditions.

Normal ranges for blood pressure are 90/60 mmHg to 120/80 mmHg, for heart rate are 60 to 100 beats per minute, for potassium are 3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L, and for glucose are 70 to 100 mg/dL.

A. “I should take this medication on an empty stomach.” B. “I should avoid foods high in potassium while taking this medication.” C. “I should report any dizziness or lightheadedness while taking this medication.” D. “I should stop taking this medication if I experience any swelling in my feet or hands.”.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The correct answer is choice C) “I should report any dizziness or lightheadedness while taking this medication.” This is because labetalol can lower blood pressure and cause orthostatic hypotension, which can lead to falls and injuries.The patient should be advised to change positions slowly and monitor their blood pressure regularly while taking labetalol.

Choice A is wrong because labetalol can be taken with or without food.Taking it on an empty stomach does not affect its absorption or efficacy.

Choice B is wrong because labetalol does not affect potassium levels in the blood.Foods high in potassium are not contraindicated while taking this medication.

Choice D is wrong because swelling in the feet or hands can be a sign of worsening preeclampsia, which is a serious complication of hypertension in pregnancy.The patient should not stop taking labetalol without consulting their doctor, as this can cause rebound hypertension and endanger the mother and the fetus.The patient should seek medical attention if they experience swelling, headache, vision changes, abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movements.

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A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client with gestational hypertension who has been diagnosed with HELLP syndrome. Which of the following findings would the nurse expect to see?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client with gestational hypertension who has been prescribed methyldopa (Aldomet) to control blood pressure during pregnancy. Which of the following side effects should the nurse monitor for?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client with gestational hypertension who has been prescribed labetalol (Normodyne) to control blood pressure during pregnancy. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the medication?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Which of the following is a sign or symptom of gestational hypertension?

Which of the following signs and symptoms may indicate worsening condition or preeclampsia in a client with gestational hypertension?

Which of the following factors increases a woman’s risk for developing gestational hypertension.