A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client with HELLP syndrome.
Which of the following findings would indicate hemolysis?
Elevated serum creatinine
Elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)
Elevated serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
Elevated serum uric acid
The Correct Answer is B
Elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) indicates hemolysis, which is one of the components of HELLP syndrome. Hemolysis is the destruction of red blood cells that occurs when they pass through damaged blood vessels.
Choice A is wrong because elevated serum creatinine indicates kidney dysfunction, which is not specific for hemolysis.
Choice C is wrong because elevated serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) indicates liver damage, which is another component of HELLP syndrome, but not specific for hemolysis.
Choice D is wrong because elevated serum uric acid indicates increased purine metabolism, which can be associated with preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome, but not specific for hemolysis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A, B, C and E.The nurse should monitor the client’s deep tendon reflexes hourly because magnesium sulfate can cause neuromuscular blockade and decreased reflexes.The nurse should keep calcium gluconate readily available because it is the antidote for magnesium toxicity.The nurse should maintain a urine output of at least 40 mL/hr because magnesium is excreted by the kidneys and low urine output can indicate renal impairment or fluid overload.The nurse should check the client’s blood pressure every 15 minutes because magnesium sulfate can cause hypotension and preeclampsia can cause hypertension.
Choice D is wrong because the medication should not be infused via a peripheral IV line, but rather through a central line or a large-bore IV catheter to prevent tissue damage.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) indicates hemolysis, which is one of the components of HELLP syndrome.Hemolysis is the destruction of red blood cells that occurs when they pass through damaged blood vessels.
Choice A is wrong because elevated serum creatinine indicates kidney dysfunction, which is not specific for hemolysis.
Choice C is wrong because elevated serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) indicates liver damage, which is another component of HELLP syndrome, but not specific for hemolysis.
Choice D is wrong because elevated serum uric acid indicates increased purine metabolism, which can be associated with preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome, but not specific for hemolysis.
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