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
Choice A rationale
A blood pressure of 102/66 mm Hg is within the normal range and would not typically need to be reported to the provider.
Choice B rationale
Yellow-green drainage on the surgical incision could be a sign of a wound infection. Infections after surgery can lead to serious complications and should be reported to the provider immediately.
Choice C rationale
A respiratory rate of 18/min is within the normal range and would not typically need to be reported to the provider.
Choice D rationale
Straw-colored urine from an indwelling urinary catheter is normal and would not typically need to be reported to the provider.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Providing information is a communication technique where the nurse gives the patient factual and relevant information. In this scenario, the nurse is not providing information but rather seeking to understand the patient’s feelings.
Choice B rationale
Summarizing is a communication technique where the nurse reviews the main points of the conversation to ensure understanding. In this scenario, the nurse is not summarizing the conversation but rather seeking to understand the patient’s feelings.
Choice C rationale
Clarification is a communication technique where the nurse seeks to understand the patient’s message by asking for more information or for elaboration on a point. In this scenario, the nurse is using clarification by restating the patient’s concern in a different way to confirm their understanding.
Choice D rationale
Confrontation is a communication technique where the nurse addresses observed discrepancies or conflicts in the patient’s behavior or communication. In this scenario, the nurse is not confronting the patient but rather seeking to understand their feelings.
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