A patient who performs dialysis at home using a catheter placed through the abdominal wall reports nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fluid discharge from the catheter site. The laboratory reports reveal an increased white blood cell count (WBC). Which condition does the nurse suspect in the patient?
Peritonitis
Pericarditis
Pleuritis
Intraperitoneal bleeding
The Correct Answer is A
A. This is an inflammation of the peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal cavity. It's a common complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Fluid discharge from the catheter site and an increased white blood cell count are also indicative of infection, supporting the diagnosis of peritonitis.
B. This is inflammation of the pericardium, the sac surrounding the heart. Symptoms typically include chest pain, shortness of breath, and irregular heartbeat.
C. This is inflammation of the pleura, the membranes surrounding the lungs. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and dry cough.
D. This would present with severe abdominal pain, hypotension, and signs of shock. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are not typical symptoms.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
A. Green beans are relatively low in potassium compared to other foods. While they do contain potassium, it is not in particularly high amounts. Therefore, they are generally considered safe in moderate amounts for individuals with CKD, but should still be monitored as part of a potassium- restricted diet.
B. Apples are low in potassium compared to many other fruits. They can be a good option for those needing to restrict potassium intake.
C. A typical serving of orange juice can contain a significant amount of potassium, which can contribute to elevated potassium levels in CKD patients. It should be limited or avoided to manage potassium intake effectively.
D. Avocados are high in potassium. A single avocado contains a substantial amount of potassium, making it a food that should be limited or avoided in a potassium-restricted diet for individuals with CKD.
E. Onions are relatively low in potassium and can be used in moderation by individuals with CKD. They are not typically a major concern for potassium restriction.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Hematocrit measures the proportion of blood volume that is occupied by red blood cells. Epoetin alfa stimulates red blood cell production, so a therapeutic effect would be indicated by an increase in hematocrit levels. This is a key laboratory result to monitor when assessing the effectiveness of epoetin alfa in treating anemia in CKD patients.
B. Serum potassium levels are important to monitor in CKD patients due to the risk of hyperkalemia, but they are not directly affected by epoetin alfa. Decreasing serum potassium is not a primary indicator of the therapeutic effect of epoetin alfa.
C. Platelet count measures the number of platelets in the blood, which are crucial for blood clotting. Epoetin alfa is not designed to affect platelet counts; thus, a change in platelet count is not an indicator of the medication's therapeutic effect.
D. White blood cell count reflects the immune system's status and is not directly influenced by epoetin alfa. This medication specifically targets red blood cell production and does not impact white blood cell counts.
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