The practical nurse (PN) is caring for an older client who is receiving chemotherapy for lung cancer. Which finding is the highest priority for the PN to report to the charge nurse?
Reference ranges:
- Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): [Adult: 10 to 20 mg/dL or 3.6 to 7.1 mmol/L]
- Platelets: [150,000 to 400,000/mm3 or 150 to 400 x 10^9/L]
Periodic nausea and vomiting
Decreased deep tendon reflexes
Platelet count 135,000/mm3 or 135 x 10^9/L
Blood urea nitrogen 75 mg/dL or 12.9 mmol/L
The Correct Answer is D
A high blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level indicates impaired renal function, which can be caused by dehydration, infection, or nephrotoxic drugs. Chemotherapy can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of renal failure. The PN should report this finding to the charge nurse, as it may require fluid replacement, dose adjustment, or discontinuation of the chemotherapy.
The other options are not correct because:
- Periodic nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy that can be managed with antiemetics, hydration, and dietary modifications. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
- Decreased deep tendon reflexes may indicate hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, or peripheral neuropathy, which can be caused by chemotherapy or other factors. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
- A platelet count of 135,000/mm3 or 135 x 10^9/L is slightly below the normal range, but not significantly low. Chemotherapy can cause thrombocytopenia, which increases the risk of bleeding. The PN should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, but this finding is not as urgent as a high BUN level.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
A) Correct - Demonstrating the technique used to monitor blood glucose levels is crucial.
Incorrect technique can lead to inaccurate readings, impacting insulin dosing decisions and blood sugar control.
B) Correct - Some asthma medications, like corticosteroids, can elevate blood glucose levels.
Evaluating the client's asthma medications is essential as they can contribute to fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
C) Incorrect- Asking the client if they want a different manufacturer's glucose monitoring device is not helpful, because it does not address the underlying causes of the poor glycemic control. The client may also perceive this as a lack of confidence in their ability to manage their diabetes or as a criticism of their choice of device. The nurse should focus on educating the client on how to use their current device correctly and consistently, rather than suggesting a change that may not be necessary or feasible.
D) Correct - Understanding the client's daily routine helps identify factors influencing blood glucose control, such as meal timing, activity level, and stress. This information aids in creating a personalized diabetes management plan.
E) Correct - Ensuring the client uses a new insulin needle for each administration is important for preventing infection and complications. Reusing needles can affect injection site health and insulin absorption.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is the finding that the PN should report to the charge nurse because it indicates a possible complication of Guillain-Barre syndrome, which is autonomic dysfunction. This can affect the cardiac, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems and cause life-threatening problems such as arrhythmias, hypotension, or respiratory failure. The PN should monitor the client's vital signs closely and report any abnormal changes.
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