The nurse is reviewing pre-operative laboratory studies of an adult client on a medical-surgical unit. Which result should be reported to the physician immediately?

Sodium, 152 mEq/L

Potassium, 3.8 mEq/L

Calcium, 10.0 mg/dL

Creatinine, 1.2 mg/dL

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A Reason:
Sodium levels in the blood should normally be between 135 and 145 mEq/L. A level of 152 mEq/L is considered high and can be indicative of hypernatremia, which requires prompt medical attention to address potential dehydration, kidney issues, or other underlying conditions.

Choice B Reason:
Potassium levels should be within the range of 3.5 to 5.2 mEq/L for adults. A result of 3.8 mEq/L falls within the normal range, indicating no immediate concern regarding potassium levels.

Choice C Reason:
Calcium levels in the blood are typically between 8.6 and 10.2 mg/dL for adults. Therefore, a calcium level of 10.0 mg/dL is within the normal range and does not require urgent reporting to a physician.

Choice D Reason:
Creatinine levels in the blood should be between 0.6 to 1.3 mg/dL in adults, depending on factors such as age, gender, and muscle mass. A level of 1.2 mg/dL is at the higher end of the normal range but is not typically considered critical unless there are other signs of kidney dysfunction.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A Reason
A hemoglobin level of 7.1 g/dL is significantly lower than the normal range, which is typically around 13.8 to 17.2 g/dL for men and 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL for women. This finding is concerning as it indicates severe anemia, which can be a life-threatening condition requiring immediate intervention. Anemia can lead to tissue hypoxia as the blood's capacity to carry oxygen is diminished. In the context of peripheral arterial disease, where blood flow is already compromised, anemia can exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of ischemic events.

Choice B Reason
Ecchymosis, or bruising, on the client's upper extremities could be a result of the antiplatelet effects of aspirin, which inhibits platelet aggregation and prolongs bleeding time. While this is a concern and warrants monitoring, it is not as immediately life-threatening as severe anemia. However, it does indicate a risk of bleeding complications, which should be addressed by the healthcare provider.

Choice C Reason
A platelet count of 148,000/uL is at the lower end of the normal range, which is approximately 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. This finding should be monitored, especially in the context of aspirin therapy, which can affect platelet function. However, it is not as critical as the low hemoglobin level.

Choice D Reason
Gastrointestinal discomfort is a common side effect of aspirin due to its irritation of the stomach lining. While this symptom can be uncomfortable and may lead to more serious gastrointestinal issues such as ulcers or bleeding, it is typically not as urgent as severe anemia. The client should be evaluated for potential gastrointestinal complications of aspirin therapy.

A. A personality disorder. B. Hypertension. C. Alcohol use disorder. D. Schizophrenia.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A Reason
While a personality disorder can present challenges in managing medications due to the complexity of the psychiatric condition, it is not typically a contraindication for the use of alprazolam. However, caution is advised as the dynamics of personality disorders can affect medication adherence and response.

Choice B Reason
Hypertension is not a direct contraindication for alprazolam. However, since alprazolam can sometimes cause changes in blood pressure, it is important for the nurse to monitor the client's blood pressure and consult with the physician if there are concerns.

Choice C Reason
Alcohol use disorder is a significant concern when prescribing alprazolam. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine, and concurrent use with substances like alcohol can increase the risk of respiratory depression, sedation, and misuse or addiction. Therefore, a history of alcohol use disorder should prompt the nurse to question the order and discuss alternative treatments with the physician.

Choice D Reason
Schizophrenia itself is not a contraindication for the use of alprazolam, but it is essential to consider the overall treatment plan for the client. Alprazolam is not a primary treatment for schizophrenia and is used for anxiety management. The nurse should ensure that the use of alprazolam does not interfere with the treatment of schizophrenia.

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The nurse is reviewing pre-operative laboratory studies of an adult client on a medical-surgical unit. Which result should be reported to the physician immediately?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

For a client diagnosed with peripheral arterial disease who has been taking aspirin 81 mg daily prophylactically for several months, which assessment finding is of most concern?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A client is prescribed alprazolam for acute anxiety. What client history should cause a nurse to question this order?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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