Which clinical problem would the nurse include in the care plan for a patient with Parkinson's disease (PD)?

Choice A reason: Amber fluid is typically a sign of serous exudate, which is a normal part of the inflammatory process and wound healing. It indicates the body's immune response to the injury and is generally not a cause for concern unless the volume significantly increases or changes in appearance.

Choice B reason: Clear drainage, or serous fluid, is also a normal finding in wound healing. It indicates that the wound is exuding plasma, which helps to keep the wound moist and supports the healing process. This type of drainage is typically not worrisome unless there are other signs of infection or complications.

Choice C reason: Purulent, draining wound is a major concern as it indicates the presence of pus, which is often a sign of infection. Purulent drainage can be yellow, green, or brown and is usually thick and malodorous. The presence of pus suggests that there are bacteria or other pathogens in the wound, and immediate medical intervention is necessary to prevent further complications and promote healing.

Choice D reason: Blood-tinged fluid, or serosanguinous drainage, is common in fresh wounds or after debridement. It indicates a mixture of plasma and red blood cells and can be seen in the early stages of wound healing. While it is generally not alarming, the nurse should monitor the volume and changes in the drainage to ensure there are no signs of excessive bleeding or infection.

Choice A reason: A hemoglobin level of 12.0 g/dL is slightly below the normal range for men but is not the most critical concern preoperatively. It indicates mild anemia, which should be monitored but does not present an immediate high risk.

Choice B reason: A serum creatinine level of 1.3 mg/dL is slightly elevated and indicates mild renal impairment. While this should be considered, it is not as immediately concerning as a significantly abnormal coagulation value.

Choice C reason: A Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) level of 24 mg/dL is slightly above normal, indicating some renal function impairment or dehydration. However, it does not pose the most significant immediate risk compared to a high INR value.

Choice D reason: An INR of 3.5 is significantly elevated and indicates a high risk of bleeding. For a surgical patient, this is the most concerning pre-op lab value because it suggests that the patient's blood is not clotting properly. This increases the risk of excessive bleeding during and after surgery, making it a priority to address before proceeding with the operation.