Which assessment finding indicates that the patient is at high risk for development of pulmonary embolism?
The patient’s last bowel movement was before surgery, 4 days ago.
The patient has refused enoxaparin injections after surgery.
The patient’s platelet count was 45,000/mm^3 this morning.
The patient required transfusion of two units of packed red blood cells.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
A patient's last bowel movement being 4 days ago does not directly increase their risk of pulmonary embolism (PE). While constipation can be a risk factor for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can lead to PE, it is not a significant risk factor on its own.
It's important to assess for other risk factors for DVT, such as immobility, recent surgery, or a history of blood clots, in conjunction with constipation.
Choice C rationale:
A platelet count of 45,000/mm^3 is low (thrombocytopenia), but it does not directly increase the risk of PE.
In fact, a low platelet count can sometimes hinder clot formation. However, it's important to monitor patients with thrombocytopenia for bleeding risks, as they may be more prone to bleeding complications.
Choice D rationale:
While receiving a transfusion of two units of packed red blood cells can increase blood viscosity, which could theoretically slightly increase the risk of PE, it is not a major risk factor.
Patients who receive transfusions are often already at an elevated risk of PE due to other underlying conditions or surgeries. It's essential to assess for other risk factors in these patients.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Loosening the tape gently by pressing the skin away from it is an important step in changing a burn dressing. However, it is not the first intervention that should be performed. This is because removing the tape can be painful, and it is important to ensure that the patient is adequately pain-free before proceeding.
Choice B rationale:
Observing the wound bed for the presence of granulation tissue is also an important part of burn care. Granulation tissue is a sign of healing, and its presence indicates that the wound is progressing as expected. However, this assessment is not the first priority when changing a dressing. Pain management should always be addressed first.
Choice D rationale:
Gently irrigating the wound using sterile normal saline is another important step in burn care. Irrigation helps to cleanse the wound and remove any debris or dead tissue. However, it should not be performed until the patient's pain has been adequately controlled.
Choice C rationale:
Administering pain medication 30 minutes beforehand is the most important first intervention when changing a painful burn dressing. This allows time for the medication to take effect and ensure that the patient is comfortable before the dressing change begins. Pain management is crucial in burn care, as it can help to reduce anxiety, promote healing, and improve patient outcomes.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A superficial abrasion heals by secondary intention, not primary intention.
In secondary intention healing, the wound is left open to heal from the inside out. This type of healing is typically slower and results in more scar tissue formation.
The absence of active bleeding, drainage, or debris is a positive sign, but it does not guarantee that the wound is healing by primary intention.
Choice C rationale:
The presence of thick yellow slough indicates that the wound is infected and not healing properly. This is a sign of delayed healing, not primary intention healing.
Choice D rationale:
The presence of granulation tissue is a sign of healing, but it does not indicate whether the wound is healing by primary or secondary intention.
Granulation tissue is a type of new tissue that forms during the healing process. It is composed of blood vessels, collagen, and fibroblasts.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.