Which finding would the nurse expect to see in a patient with a hemoglobin level of 8 g/dL? Select all that apply.
One, some, or all responses may be correct.
Palpitations.
Conjunctival pallor.
Sternal tenderness.
Heart rate of 104 beats/min.
Correct Answer : B,D
Choice A rationale:
Palpitations are not directly related to a low hemoglobin level. They can occur due to various cardiac conditions but are not specific to anemia.
Choice B rationale:
Conjunctival pallor is a common physical finding in patients with low hemoglobin levels (anemia) Anemia leads to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity, causing paleness in mucous membranes such as the conjunctiva.
Choice C rationale:
Sternal tenderness is not a typical finding associated with low hemoglobin levels. It is more often associated with conditions affecting the sternum or adjacent structures, such as infections or inflammation.
Choice D rationale:
A heart rate of 104 beats/min can be a compensatory response to anemia. When the body senses reduced oxygen levels due to anemia, the heart rate may increase to pump more blood and oxygen to vital organs, attempting to compensate for the low hemoglobin levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Palpating lymph nodes for swelling is not directly related to thrombocytopenia. Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a low platelet count, which can lead to easy bruising and bleeding. Checking lymph nodes is more relevant in assessing for infection or malignancy.
Choice B rationale:
Checking temperature for elevation is important for assessing infection, which could be a cause of thrombocytopenia. However, in this context, inspecting the skin for bruising or petechiae is more specific to thrombocytopenia. Petechiae are small, red or purple dots that appear on the skin when platelet count is low.
Choice D rationale:
Examining oral mucosa for ulceration is essential in the assessment of conditions like oral cancer or infection. While thrombocytopenia could lead to bleeding in the oral mucosa, it is not the most specific or immediate concern in a patient with known thrombocytopenia.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Flossing using thick tape floss can cause trauma to the gums and may lead to bleeding in patients with thrombocytopenia. Patients with low platelet counts are at risk of excessive bleeding from minor injuries, and using thick tape floss could potentially harm the gums and exacerbate bleeding.
Choice B rationale:
Shaving using an electric razor is a safe option for patients with thrombocytopenia. Electric razors do not pose a significant risk of cuts or nicks, reducing the likelihood of bleeding, which is crucial for patients with low platelet counts.
Choice C rationale:
Wearing flip-flops to go walking may not be the safest option for a patient with thrombocytopenia. If the patient accidentally stubs their toe or injures their foot while wearing flip-flops, it could lead to bleeding. Closed-toe, comfortable shoes provide better protection against foot injuries.
Choice D rationale:
Brushing using a stiff-bristle toothbrush can be harmful to the gums, especially for patients with thrombocytopenia. Stiff-bristle toothbrushes can cause gum irritation and bleeding. Patients with low platelet counts should use a soft-bristle toothbrush to minimize the risk of gum injury.
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