Exhibits
Which laboratory tests would be helpful in determining the plan of care for this client? Select all that apply.
Coagulation studies
Type and screen
Urine osmolality
Complete blood count
Blood culture
Lipid panel
Arterial blood gas
Electrolytes
Correct Answer : A,B,D,G,H
A. Coagulation Studies: This client has liver and spleen lacerations with blood noted in the peritoneum, increasing the risk of coagulopathy due to active bleeding. The liver is responsible for producing clotting factors, and an injury may impair coagulation. The client also has a low hemoglobin (9.3 g/dL) and hematocrit (30%), suggesting ongoing blood loss. Monitoring prothrombin time (PT), international normalized ratio (INR), and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) can guide transfusion therapy (e.g., fresh frozen plasma or platelets).
B. Type and Screen: This client has evidence of hemorrhagic shock (tachycardia, narrow pulse pressure, low hemoglobin/hematocrit) and may require blood transfusion. Type and screen determines ABO blood type and Rh factor to ensure availability of compatible blood products. If bleeding worsens, crossmatching blood would be necessary for transfusion.
C. Urine osmolality: Not a priority in this trauma case. Urine osmolality assesses kidney function and hydration status but does not provide urgent information about blood loss, shock, or ventilation status.
D. Complete Blood Count (CBC): Provides serial hemoglobin and hematocrit (H&H) monitoring to assess for ongoing internal bleeding. White blood cell (WBC) count helps detect infection or inflammation post-operatively. Platelets are critical for clotting and must be monitored, especially in trauma patients at risk for coagulopathy.
E. Blood culture: Used to detect bloodstream infections (sepsis), which is not an immediate concern in this trauma patient. While infection risk is relevant postoperatively, it is not a priority test for acute trauma care.
F. Lipid panel: Lipid panels evaluate cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which are irrelevant in acute trauma management.
G. Arterial Blood Gas (ABG): This client is intubated and ventilated, making ABG analysis essential for evaluating: Oxygenation (PaO₂, SaO₂) and ventilation (PaCO₂), Acid-base balance (pH, bicarbonate levels). Early detection of metabolic acidosis, which may indicate shock or inadequate perfusion.
H. Electrolytes: Trauma and fluid resuscitation can cause electrolyte imbalances, leading to cardiac arrhythmias, fluid shifts, and metabolic disturbances. Potassium (K⁺) is Essential to monitor due to IV fluids with potassium chloride infusion. Sodium (Na⁺), chloride (Cl⁻), and bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) are crucial in assessing fluid status and acid-base balance. Lactate levels (part of a metabolic panel) can indicate tissue hypoxia and worsening shock.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Notify the surgeon: The client has developed a wound dehiscence with evisceration of intestinal tissue, which is a serious surgical complication. Immediate communication with the surgeon is necessary to determine the next steps for repair and to avoid further complications, such as infection or organ injury.
B. Place the client in low-Fowler's with knees raised: While positioning is important for comfort and reducing pressure on the abdomen, placing the client in low-Fowler’s position is not the priority. The focus should be on protecting the eviscerated tissue and managing potential hypovolemia.
C. Start a peripheral IV (PIV): Starting a PIV is essential for administering fluids and medications, especially if the client requires resuscitation or further surgical intervention. The client's vital signs (decreased blood pressure, increased heart rate) suggest potential hypovolemia or shock, which may require IV fluids for stabilization.
D. Cover the wound with moistened sterile gauze: Evisceration requires immediate intervention to protect the exposed tissue. The nurse should cover the wound with sterile gauze that is moistened with normal saline to prevent the exposed intestines from drying out and to reduce the risk of infection. This is a critical step in managing the wound before further surgical intervention.
E. Hold pressure on the dressing: Applying pressure to the surgical dressing is not appropriate in this situation because it could cause more harm or further disrupt the wound. The wound should be covered with moistened sterile gauze to protect the eviscerated tissue, not pressured.
F. Encourage the client to drink fluids: Oral intake is not appropriate in the acute post-surgical phase when the client has experienced evisceration. The client may require surgical repair, and fluids should be administered intravenously to avoid the risk of aspiration or bowel perforation.
G. Assist the client to cough and deep breathe: While respiratory exercises are important for preventing atelectasis and pneumonia post-operatively, they are not an immediate priority in this situation where the client has evisceration. Stabilizing the wound and addressing potential shock takes precedence.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Drinking large amounts of fluids before bedtime may increase nocturia but does not specifically prevent UTIs.
B. Voiding before and after sexual activity helps flush out bacteria that could enter the urethra.
C. Holding urine is harmful and can increase the risk of bacterial growth.
D. Cleaning in a circular motion is not the correct hygiene technique; wiping front to back is the recommended method.
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