An adult male is experiencing increased fatigue and occasional palpitations at rest. Which laboratory data would the nurse identify as consistent with these symptoms?
Red Blood Cells 48,000/μL (normal 4,700,000-6,100,000/μL)
Platelets (Plts) of 120,000/μL (normal 150,000-400,000/μL)
Hemoglobin (Hgb) of 6.9g/dL (normal 14-18g/dL)
White blood cell count (WBC) 11,000/mm³ (normal 5,000-10,000/mm³)
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: The red blood cell (RBC) count provided is significantly below the normal range (4,700,000-6,100,000/μL). However, the unit of measure given in the question (48,000/μL) is incorrect for RBCs, so it may not be consistent with the symptoms of fatigue and palpitations. Typically, a low RBC count can contribute to these symptoms, but in this case, the measurement provided is not clear.
Choice B reason: Platelets of 120,000/μL are below the normal range (150,000-400,000/μL). While low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) can lead to bleeding and bruising, they are not typically associated with symptoms of fatigue and palpitations. This finding is more indicative of a potential bleeding disorder rather than anemia or another condition that would cause the given symptoms.
Choice C reason: Hemoglobin (Hgb) of 6.9g/dL is significantly below the normal range (14-18g/dL) and indicates severe anemia. Anemia is a common cause of fatigue and palpitations because the body has a reduced capacity to carry oxygen to tissues. Low hemoglobin levels can lead to decreased oxygen delivery, resulting in increased fatigue and compensatory palpitations as the heart works harder to circulate oxygen-poor blood.
Choice D reason: White blood cell (WBC) count of 11,000/mm³ is slightly above the normal range (5,000-10,000/mm³) and indicates a mild leukocytosis, which is usually a sign of infection or inflammation. While leukocytosis can cause fatigue if there is an underlying infection, it is not directly associated with palpitations and severe fatigue. The primary concern with fatigue and palpitations lies more with oxygen-carrying capacity, which is affected by hemoglobin levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E","F","H"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Jaundice is a common finding in cirrhosis due to impaired liver function, which leads to the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood. This causes the skin and the whites of the eyes to turn yellow.
Choice B reason: Spider angiomas are dilated blood vessels that appear on the skin and are often seen in patients with cirrhosis. They are caused by increased estrogen levels due to impaired liver function.
Choice C reason: Lethargy is a symptom of cirrhosis as the liver's ability to detoxify the blood is compromised, leading to fatigue and weakness.
Choice D reason: An apical pulse regular with S1, S2 is not specifically associated with cirrhosis. While it may be a normal finding, it does not indicate the presence of cirrhosis.
Choice E reason: Abdomen moderately distended is consistent with cirrhosis due to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity (ascites), which is a common complication of advanced liver disease.
Choice F reason: Dark amber urine is a sign of cirrhosis as the liver's ability to process bilirubin is impaired, leading to the excretion of conjugated bilirubin in the urine, which gives it a dark color.
Choice G reason: Peripheral pulses are palpable is not specifically associated with cirrhosis. While it may be a normal finding, it does not indicate the presence of cirrhosis.
Choice H reason: 3+ pitting edema is consistent with cirrhosis due to the retention of sodium and water, leading to swelling in the lower extremities.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Monitoring potassium levels is essential for various medical conditions, but it is not specifically used to evaluate the effects of therapy for acute pancreatitis. Potassium levels may be monitored to assess overall electrolyte balance and kidney function, but they do not provide direct information about pancreatic inflammation or damage.
Choice B reason: Monitoring lipase levels is crucial in evaluating the effects of therapy for a patient with acute pancreatitis. Lipase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas, and its levels rise significantly during an acute episode of pancreatitis. Elevated lipase levels are a sensitive and specific indicator of pancreatic inflammation and damage. By regularly measuring lipase levels, healthcare providers can assess the severity of the condition, monitor the patient's response to treatment, and make necessary adjustments to the therapeutic regimen.
Choice C reason: Calcium levels are not typically used to evaluate the effects of therapy for acute pancreatitis. Although hypercalcemia (high calcium levels) can be a risk factor for developing pancreatitis, monitoring calcium levels is not a standard method for assessing the effectiveness of treatment for the condition.
Choice D reason: Bilirubin levels are not directly related to the evaluation of therapy for acute pancreatitis. Bilirubin is a breakdown product of hemoglobin and is primarily used to assess liver function and diagnose conditions such as jaundice or liver disease. While liver function tests may be performed in patients with pancreatitis to rule out concurrent liver issues, bilirubin levels alone do not provide information about the effectiveness of therapy for pancreatitis.
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