While changing a postoperative patient’s dressing, the nurse notices purulent drainage at the site.
Before reporting this to the healthcare provider, which of the patient’s lab values should the nurse check?
Hematocrit.
Neutrophil count.
Platelet count.
Serum sodium level.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Hematocrit is a measure of the proportion of red blood cells in the blood. While it can be affected by various conditions, it is not the most relevant lab value to check when purulent drainage is noticed at a postoperative patient’s dressing site.
Choice B rationale
Neutrophil count is a measure of the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in the blood. An elevated neutrophil count can indicate an infection, making it the most relevant lab value to check in this scenario.
Choice C rationale
Platelet count is a measure of the number of platelets in the blood. While platelets play a crucial role in blood clotting, they are not directly related to infection and therefore not the most relevant lab value to check in this scenario.
Choice D rationale
Serum sodium level is a measure of the amount of sodium in the blood. While it can be affected by various conditions, it is not the most relevant lab value to check when purulent drainage is noticed at a postoperative patient’s dressing site.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","F","H"]
Explanation
H.
Choice A rationale
Monitoring the oxygen saturation is an important nursing intervention following the administration of albuterol. Albuterol is a bronchodilator and should improve oxygen saturation by increasing airflow and oxygen delivery.
Choice B rationale
Deep tracheal suctioning is not typically required following the administration of albuterol unless the patient has excessive secretions or difficulty clearing secretions.
Choice C rationale
Discussing potential asthma triggers with the client is an important nursing intervention. Understanding and avoiding triggers can help prevent future asthma exacerbations.
Choice D rationale
Obtaining a sputum culture is not typically required following the administration of albuterol unless there is a suspicion of a respiratory infection.
Choice E rationale
Positive pressure ventilation is not typically required following the administration of albuterol unless the patient is in severe respiratory distress.
Choice F rationale
Allowing the client to take a position of comfort can help improve breathing and should be encouraged.
Choice G rationale
Discussing aggressive respiratory treatment options is not typically required following the administration of albuterol unless the patient’s condition is not improving or worsening.
Choice H rationale
Weaning the supplemental oxygen may be appropriate following the administration of albuterol if the patient’s oxygen saturation has improved.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is D. The practical nurse (PN) who is assisting the registered nurse (RN) with the care of a group of clients is best assigned to an adult who is one day postoperative for a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This client’s care involves routine postoperative care and monitoring, which is within the PN’s scope of practice. The other clients have more complex needs that require the higher level of education and skills of an RN.
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.
