A patient is scheduled for a liver biopsy.
Which laboratory result would be of most concern to the nurse?
Serum ammonia level of 56 mcg N/dL
Hemoglobin of 11 g/dL
White blood cell count of 14.2 x 103/uL
Prothrombin time of 32 seconds
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While an elevated serum ammonia level can indicate liver dysfunction, it is not typically a contraindication for liver biopsy. Ammonia is a byproduct of protein metabolism and is normally converted into urea by the liver, which is then excreted in the urine. Elevated levels can occur in liver disease, but they are not typically a direct concern in the context of a liver biopsy.
Choice B rationale
A hemoglobin level of 11 g/dL is slightly low, but it is not typically a contraindication for a liver biopsy. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. While a low hemoglobin level can indicate anemia, it would not typically prevent a patient from undergoing a liver biopsy.
Choice C rationale
A white blood cell count of 14.2 x 103/uL is slightly elevated, indicating a possible infection or inflammation. However, this would not typically be a contraindication for a liver biopsy.
Choice D rationale
A prothrombin time of 32 seconds is significantly prolonged, indicating a potential problem with blood clotting. This would be a major concern for a nurse caring for a patient scheduled for a liver biopsy, as the procedure involves inserting a needle into the liver and could lead to bleeding. Patients with a prolonged prothrombin time are at an increased risk of bleeding complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The maximum duration for the total infusion time of packed red blood cells should be 4 hours. This is to ensure the safety and efficacy of the transfusion. Transfusing the blood too quickly can lead to complications, while taking too long can result in the blood becoming unusable.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Rice is a safe food choice for a child diagnosed with celiac disease. Celiac disease is a chronic immune disorder triggered by the consumption of gluten, a protein naturally present in wheat, barley, and rye. When people with celiac disease eat foods with gluten, the immune system attacks the small intestine, causing inflammation and damage that affects digestion, absorption, and nutrition. Rice is naturally gluten-free and can be included in the diet of a person with celiac disease.
Choice B rationale
Rye is not a safe food choice for a child diagnosed with celiac disease. Rye contains gluten, which triggers an immune response in people with celiac disease. This immune response can cause damage to the small intestine and lead to various health problems.
Choice C rationale
Wheat is not a safe food choice for a child diagnosed with celiac disease. Wheat contains gluten, which triggers an immune response in people with celiac disease. This immune response can cause damage to the small intestine and lead to various health problems.
Choice D rationale
Barley is not a safe food choice for a child diagnosed with celiac disease. Barley contains gluten, which triggers an immune response in people with celiac disease. This immune response can cause damage to the small intestine and lead to various health problems.
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