The nurse is preparing a client for surgery who was admitted to the emergency center following a motor vehicle collision. The client has an open fracture of the femur and is bleeding moderately from the bone protrusion site. During the preoperative assessment, the nurse determines that the client currently receives heparin sodium 5,000 units subcutaneously daily. What is the priority nursing action?

Have the client sign the surgical and transfusion permits.

Ensure that the potential for bleeding is explained to the client

Observe the heparin injections sites for signs of bruising.

Notify the healthcare provider of the client's medication history.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. Have the client sign the surgical and transfusion permits:
While obtaining signed consent is important, the immediate concern is addressing the client's medication history, especially the use of heparin, which can contribute to bleeding.

B. Ensure that the potential for bleeding is explained to the client:
Education about the potential for bleeding is important, but the immediate action is to communicate the client's medication history to the healthcare provider for appropriate guidance.

C. Observe the heparin injection sites for signs of bruising:
Monitoring for bruising at injection sites is a consideration, but it is not the priority when the client is actively bleeding from an open fracture.

D. Notify the healthcare provider of the client's medication history:
This is the correct answer. Heparin is an anticoagulant, and its use can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. The healthcare provider needs to be informed of the client's current medication history to make decisions regarding the timing and management of heparin therapy in the perioperative period.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Blood pH level:
The blood pH level is important for assessing the acid-base balance in the body. However, in the context of purulent drainage from a wound, it is not the primary laboratory value to review for signs of infection.

B. Platelet count:
Platelet count is important for assessing blood clotting ability. While it is a valuable parameter in overall care, it may not be directly related to the observation of purulent drainage from a wound, which typically suggests infection rather than a clotting issue.

C. Hematocrit:
Hematocrit measures the proportion of blood that is cellular. Like platelet count, it is important for assessing overall blood composition and oxygen-carrying capacity. However, it may not be the first parameter to review when evaluating signs of infection.

D. White blood cell (WBC) count:
The WBC count is a crucial parameter when assessing for infection. An elevated WBC count is a common response to infection as the body mobilizes its immune defenses. Reviewing the WBC count is particularly relevant when purulent drainage is observed, as it may indicate an inflammatory response to infection.

A. Drink at least 8 cups (1920 mL) of water per day. B. Eat high protein foods to achieve ideal body weight C. Encourage active range of motion to limit stiffness. D. Use electric heating pad when pain is at its worse.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Drink at least 8 cups (1920 mL) of water per day:
This is the correct answer. Adequate hydration is important in the management of gout because it helps to flush out uric acid and prevent the formation of urate crystals. Increasing fluid intake, especially water, is a key component of gout management.

B. Eat high protein foods to achieve ideal body weight:
While maintaining a healthy weight is important in managing gout, the emphasis should be on a balanced diet that includes adequate hydration and avoidance of foods high in purines, which can contribute to increased uric acid levels.

C. Encourage active range of motion to limit stiffness:
Active range of motion exercises can be beneficial for joint health, but the primary emphasis in gout management is on dietary and pharmacological interventions.

D. Use an electric heating pad when pain is at its worse:
Applying heat may provide some relief, but it is not the primary intervention for gout. Cold compresses or ice may be more appropriate for acute gout attacks.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

While caring for a client with a full thickness burn covering 40% of the body, the nurse observes purulent drainage at the wound. Before reporting this finding to the healthcare provider, the nurse should review which of the client's laboratory values?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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