A preschool-aged child who is being tested for Streptococcal pharyngitis returns to the clinic for signs of scarlet fever. Which assessment finding
provides the clearest indication to the nurse that the child is experiencing a reaction to toxins that are created by Streptococcal bacteria.

Choice C reason: Initiating patient controlled analgesia (PCA. pumps for two clients immediately postoperatively is not a nursing action that can be assigned to the PN. PCA pump is a device that allows the client to self-administer pain medication through an IV line by pressing a button. PCA pump should be initiated by the nurse after verifying the prescription, setting the parameters, educating the client, and ensuring safety and effectiveness. The PN does not have the authority or competency to initiate PCA pump or adjust its settings.

Choice D reason: Starting the second blood transfusion for a client twelve hours following a below knee amputation is not a nursing action that can be assigned to the PN. Blood transfusion is a procedure that delivers donated blood or blood products into the client's bloodstream through an IV line. Blood transfusion should be started by the nurse after verifying the prescription, checking the blood type and compatibility, obtaining informed consent, and monitoring for any adverse reactions. The PN does not have the authority or competency to start blood transfusion or manage its complications.

Choice C is correct because serum potassium, calcium, and phosphorus are electrolytes that can be affected by ESRD. ESRD is a condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood. This can cause electrolyte imbalances that can lead to serious complications, such as cardiac arrhythmias, bone disorders, or metabolic acidosis. The nurse should closely monitor these electrolytes and report any abnormal values.

Choice A is incorrect because blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature are vital signs that are not specific to ESRD. Vital signs can be influenced by many factors and may not reflect the severity of kidney damage. The nurse should monitor vital signs regularly, but not as closely as electrolytes.

Choice B is incorrect because leukocytes, neutrophils, and thyroxine are not laboratory results that are directly related to ESRD. Leukocytes and neutrophils are types of white blood cells that are involved in immune response and inflammation. Thyroxine is a hormone that regulates metabolism and growth. These laboratory results may be altered by other conditions or medications, but not by ESRD.

Choice D is incorrect because erythrocytes, hemoglobin, and hematocrit are laboratory results that measure the red blood cell count and oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. These laboratory results may be decreased in ESRD due to anemia, which is a common complication of chronic kidney disease. However, anemia is not as life-threatening as electrolyte imbalances and can be treated with erythropoietin injections or iron supplements.