The nurse is caring for a client who has been taking aspirin 81mg PO daily for the last six months. Which clinical findings are of most concern? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
Temperature elevation of 100.4 ORGAN
Hemoglobin decrease from 128g/dl to 9.5g/dl
Serum potassium increase from 3.5 mEq/L 4.5 mEq/L
Gastrointestinal discomfort prior to eating breakfast
Several areas of ecchymosis on upper and lower extremities
Correct Answer : B,E
A. Temperature elevation of 100.4°F: While a slight fever can indicate infection or inflammation, it is not an immediate concern related to aspirin use. It requires monitoring but is not as critical as other findings.
B. Hemoglobin decrease from 128 g/dL to 5.5 g/dL: This significant drop in hemoglobin indicates severe anemia, which is a major concern and may suggest gastrointestinal bleeding, a known risk of long-term aspirin use.
C. Serum potassium increase from 3.5 mEq/L to 4.5 mEq/L: This level is still within the normal range and does not indicate a significant clinical issue. Normal potassium levels do not raise immediate concern.
D. Gastrointestinal discomfort prior to eating breakfast: While gastrointestinal discomfort can be a side effect of aspirin, it is not immediately alarming unless associated with more severe symptoms like bleeding or ulceration.
E. Several areas of ecchymosis on upper and lower extremities: This finding is concerning as it may indicate bleeding issues due to thrombocytopenia or increased bleeding tendency associated with aspirin therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "The chest pains caused by a spasm of my heart": This statement reflects a misunderstanding. Chronic stable angina is typically caused by myocardial ischemia due to atherosclerosis rather than spasms. While vasospasm can occur, it is not the primary cause of chronic stable angina.
B. "I should not experience chest pain since I am on aspirin therapy": This statement is misleading. Aspirin therapy helps reduce the risk of clot formation and subsequent heart attacks but does not eliminate angina. Patients may still experience angina symptoms during exertion or stress.
C. "I should hire someone to shovel snow in the winter": This statement indicates an understanding of the need to avoid excessive physical exertion that could trigger angina. Hiring someone to perform strenuous tasks like shoveling snow reflects a proactive approach to managing the condition and preventing potential angina episodes.
D. "Each time I have chest pain my heart is damaged more": This statement is overly alarmist. While recurrent angina can indicate underlying heart issues, occasional episodes of stable angina do not necessarily result in immediate, progressive heart damage.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Bone marrow aspiration study: While this test can provide information about the bone marrow's ability to produce red blood cells, it is not typically the first diagnostic test used to detect the cause of chronic iron deficiency anemia.
B. Vitamin B2 level: This test measures riboflavin levels, which are not related to iron deficiency anemia. Vitamin B12 or folate levels are more relevant in differentiating types of anemia.
C. Stool for occult blood: This test is commonly used to detect hidden blood in the stool, which can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding—a frequent cause of chronic iron deficiency anemia. Identifying blood loss in the GI tract is crucial for diagnosing the underlying issue.
D. Schelling's test: This test is used to determine the absorption of vitamin B12 and is not
applicable to iron deficiency anemia.
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