An older adult client who is having difficulty passing urine is found to have elevated levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA). The nurse understands that this finding indicates which of the following?
The client has a harmful gene mutation which puts him at a higher risk for cancer in the future.
The client will need additional testing to determine if he has cancer.
The client has prostate cancer.
The client has benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
The Correct Answer is B
A. PSA levels themselves do not indicate a gene mutation. Elevated PSA levels are primarily associated with prostate conditions rather than genetic mutations. While certain genetic mutations can predispose individuals to prostate cancer, PSA alone does not diagnose genetic mutations.
B. Elevated PSA levels can indicate the possibility of prostate cancer, but further testing is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Additional tests may include a digital rectal exam (DRE), imaging studies (such as ultrasound or MRI), and a prostate biopsy.
C. Elevated PSA levels can suggest prostate cancer, but they do not definitively diagnose it. Prostate cancer can only be confirmed through a biopsy that identifies cancerous cells in the prostate tissue.
D. BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly occurs in older men. While BPH can cause urinary symptoms similar to prostate cancer, elevated PSA levels are not typically associated with BPH alone. PSA elevation is more specific to prostate cancer but can also occur with other prostate conditions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hypernatremia can indicate dehydration or other electrolyte imbalances. Furosemide can further affect electrolyte balance, especially sodium and potassium. However, this sodium level is only slightly elevated and may not necessarily require immediate action regarding furosemide administration.
B. Furosemide is a diuretic that can further decrease blood pressure due to its effects on fluid volume reduction. Administering it to a patient with already low blood pressure could potentially lead to significant hypotension and compromise perfusion to vital organs.
C. While incontinence itself may not directly contraindicate furosemide administration, it could indicate underlying issues such as bladder dysfunction or fluid overload that need further evaluation. This finding alone would not necessarily require holding the medication, but it warrants further assessment and consideration in the clinical context.
D. Normal serum potassium levels typically range from 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. A level of 5.3 mEq/L indicates hyperkalemia (elevated potassium). While this potassium level is mildly elevated, it would not be a reason on its own to hold furosemide. Monitoring potassium levels closely and potentially adjusting potassium
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Atrial flutter typically presents with a regular atrial rate (usually around 250-350 beats per minute) and a characteristic "sawtooth" pattern of flutter waves (F-waves) on the ECG. This condition would not present with irregular ventricular rates and is less likely based on the ECG findings described.
B. Atrial fibrillation is identified by an irregularly irregular rhythm and the absence of P-waves on the ECG, which is replaced by erratic activity.
C. Unstable angina presents with chest pain or discomfort due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscles, usually related to atherosclerotic plaque rupture or erosion. It does not cause the ECG findings described (absence of P-waves and irregular ventricular rate).
D. PACs are early atrial depolarizations that can cause palpitations but do not typically result in the absence of P-waves or irregular ventricular rates as described in the scenario.
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