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 ["18"]
Explanation
Step 1 is to calculate the infusion rate. The prescription is for heparin 900 units/hr IV. The IV bag contains heparin 25,000 units in 500 mL of 0.45% normal saline.
So, the calculation would be (900 units ÷ 25,000 units) × 500 mL = 18 mL/hr.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The antibiotic cefdinir is used to treat many different types of infections caused by bacteria. While a balanced diet is important for overall health, yogurt or buttermilk is a better choice due to their probiotic content, which may promote gut health and support the immune system.
Choice B rationale
Green leafy vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, but they are not a primary focus for a client with a postoperative wound infection. The emphasis should be on foods that support the immune system and overall recovery, such as yogurt or buttermilk.
Choice C rationale
Avocados and cheese are not specifically recommended for a client with a postoperative wound infection. While these foods are part of a balanced diet, they do not have specific benefits for a person taking cefdinir.
Choice D rationale
Fresh fruits are generally a healthy dietary choice, but they are not particularly relevant to the management of a postoperative wound infection. The emphasis for this client should be on foods that support wound healing and immune function, such as yogurt or buttermilk.
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