Gastrointestinal illnesses cause symptoms of anorexia, vomiting, and diarrhea. Which lab value should the nurse monitor related to volume depletion?
Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)
B12 Level
Electrolyte imbalance
Hemoglobin level
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) is a protein used as a tumor marker, particularly for cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. It is not directly related to volume depletion caused by gastrointestinal illnesses.
Choice B rationale
B12 level is important for nerve function and the formation of red blood cells. It is not directly related to volume depletion caused by gastrointestinal illnesses.
Choice C rationale
Electrolyte imbalance is the correct answer. Gastrointestinal illnesses often cause symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to significant loss of fluids and electrolytes.
Monitoring electrolyte levels is crucial in these cases to prevent complications related to volume depletion.
Choice D rationale
Hemoglobin level is an indicator of the amount of oxygen-carrying protein in the blood. While it is an important lab value, it is not the most relevant in the context of volume depletion due to gastrointestinal illnesses.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While it’s important to prepare for a barium swallow test, maintaining a clear liquid diet 24 hours before the test is not typically required.
Choice B rationale
Drinking plenty of fluids after the test is indeed a correct instruction. The barium used in the test can cause constipation or impacted stool if it does not pass out of the body. Drinking ample fluids helps flush the contrast from the gastrointestinal system.
Choice C rationale
While it’s true that the stool may be discolored after a barium swallow test, it’s more likely to be lighter or white, not black.
Choice D rationale
The barium swallow test does not involve the injection of any dye that would cause a warm feeling. This sensation is more commonly associated with the injection of contrast dye in other types of imaging tests, not a barium swallow.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Sucralfate is not commonly used to treat irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome is typically managed with dietary modifications, stress management, and medications to control specific symptoms such as constipation or diarrhea.
Choice B rationale
Sucralfate is not commonly used to treat Crohn’s disease. Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that is typically managed with anti-inflammatory medications, immune system suppressors, and antibiotics.
Choice C rationale
Sucralfate is commonly used to treat gastric ulcers. It works by forming a protective barrier over the ulcer, which helps protect the ulcer from further damage by stomach acid and allows it to heal.
Choice D rationale
While sucralfate can be used to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is not the first-line treatment. Other medications, such as proton pump inhibitors and H2 blockers, are typically used first.
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