A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values of a client who is at risk for disseminated intravascular coagulopathy. Which of the following values should the nurse report to the provider?
Platelets 156,000/mm³
Fibrinogen 85 mg/dL
PT 12 seconds
PTT 64 seconds
The Correct Answer is B
A. Platelets 156,000/mm³: This platelet count is within the normal range (normal range: 150,000 to 400,000/mm³). Although disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) can lead to thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), the platelet count in this scenario is not indicative of DIC.
B. Fibrinogen 85 mg/dL: This is the correct answer. A decreased fibrinogen level is often seen in DIC. Fibrinogen is consumed in the formation of microclots, and a low level may indicate ongoing coagulation.
C. PT 12 seconds: The prothrombin time (PT) is within the normal range. In DIC, the PT may be prolonged due to the consumption of clotting factors, but in this case, the PT is normal.
D. PTT 64 seconds: The partial thromboplastin time (PTT) is prolonged, which can be an indication of DIC. However, the more specific indicator in this scenario is the low fibrinogen level.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Troponin is a lipid whose levels reflect the risk for coronary artery disease: This statement is incorrect. Troponin is not a lipid, and its levels do not reflect the risk for coronary artery disease. Troponin is a protein associated with muscle tissue.
B. Troponin is an enzyme that indicates damage to brain, heart, and skeletal muscle tissues: While troponin indicates damage to muscle tissues, it is specifically associated with cardiac muscle, not brain or skeletal muscle tissues.
C. Troponin is a protein that helps transport oxygen throughout the body: This statement is incorrect. While proteins in the blood may contribute to oxygen transport, troponin's primary role is in muscle contraction, particularly in the heart.
D. Troponin is a heart muscle protein that appears in the bloodstream when there is damage to the heart: This is the correct answer. Troponin is a protein found in cardiac muscle cells, and when there is damage to the heart, such as during a myocardial infarction, troponin is released into the bloodstream. Elevated troponin levels in the blood are indicative of myocardial injury or infarction.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Fatigue: Hypokalemia (low potassium levels) can lead to fatigue and weakness. Potassium is essential for proper muscle and nerve function, and a deficiency can result in muscle weakness and decreased energy levels.
B. Pitting edema: Pitting edema is more commonly associated with fluid retention, which can occur in heart failure. Hypokalemia is not typically a direct cause of pitting edema.
C. Dyspnea: Dyspnea (shortness of breath) is a symptom commonly associated with heart failure, and while potassium imbalance can affect cardiac function, it is not a specific manifestation of hypokalemia.
D. Oliguria: Oliguria (decreased urine output) is not a typical manifestation of hypokalemia. However, it can be associated with heart failure and other renal conditions.
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