A nurse is reviewing the plan of care for a client who has systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The client reports fatigue, joint tenderness, swelling, and difficulty urinating. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse anticipate? (Select all that apply)
Positive ANA titer
2+ urine protein
Increased hemoglobin
Increased serum T3 and T4
Elevated BUN
Correct Answer : A,B,E
A. A positive antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer is a common finding in SLE. This test is often used as a screening tool for autoimmune diseases, and most patients with SLE will have a positive ANA. Therefore, this finding is expected.
B. The presence of protein in the urine (proteinuria) is indicative of kidney involvement, which can occur in SLE due to lupus nephritis. Given the client's difficulty urinating and other symptoms, this finding would be anticipated.
C. This statement is unlikely to be correct. In SLE, anemia is common due to various factors, including chronic disease, bone marrow involvement, or hemolysis. Therefore, an increased hemoglobin level would not be expected in this scenario.
D. This finding is not typically associated with SLE. SLE is primarily an autoimmune disease affecting the connective tissues, and thyroid function tests (like T3 and T4) would not show increased levels unless there is an underlying thyroid disorder. Therefore, this finding is not expected in SLE.
E. An elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level may be anticipated, especially if there is kidney involvement due to lupus nephritis. Increased BUN can indicate impaired kidney function, which aligns with the client's symptoms of difficulty urinating.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Prednisone can lead to sodium and fluid retention, which can result in hypertension and edema. While this is an important consideration, it is not the most critical point to emphasize initially. Managing weight and blood pressure is essential, but there are more immediate concerns with the medication's use.
B. Long-term use of prednisone can result in changes such as fat redistribution, leading to a "moon face," buffalo hump, and increased abdominal fat. This is significant for understanding the side effects of prolonged therapy, but it is not the most urgent information for the client to know.
C. Prednisone can cause side effects such as mood changes, anxiety, or jitteriness, especially when initiating treatment or adjusting dosages. While this is relevant, the potential for emotional or psychological effects is secondary to the critical management of the medication.
D. This is the most critical point to emphasize. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can suppress the body's natural adrenal function. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to adrenal crisis, which can be life- threatening.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While taking a multivitamin can provide additional nutrients, it is generally not a cause for concern unless the multivitamin contains high doses of certain minerals that might interact negatively with iron absorption. However, this is less pressing compared to the interaction between antacids and iron.
B. Antacids can significantly interfere with the absorption of oral iron supplements, leading to inadequate treatment of iron deficiency anemia. This is the most concerning finding because it may negate the effectiveness of the iron supplementation, making it harder for the patient to improve their iron levels.
C. Black stools are a common and expected side effect of iron supplementation due to the presence of unabsorbed iron in the gastrointestinal tract. While the nurse should monitor for this, it is not inherently concerning as it indicates that the iron is being ingested.
D. Constipation is a common side effect of iron supplements. Although it can be uncomfortable, it is not as critical as the potential interference caused by taking antacids. Management strategies can often alleviate this side effect.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
