While changing the dressing of a client who is immobile, the practical nurse (PN) observes a red and swollen wound with a moderate amount of yellow and green drainage and a foul odor. Before reporting this finding to the healthcare provider, the PN should evaluate which of the client's laboratory values?
C-reactive protein level.
Culture for sensitive organisms.
Serum albumin.
Serum blood glucose (BG) level.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice B. Culture for sensitive organisms.
Choice A rationale:
C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are indicative of inflammation in the body and can help identify the presence of an infection. However, CRP levels do not provide specific information about the type of organism causing the infection, which is crucial for targeted treatment.
Choice B rationale:
A culture for sensitive organisms is essential in this scenario because it identifies the specific bacteria or other pathogens present in the wound. This information is critical for selecting the appropriate antibiotic therapy to treat the infection effectively.
Choice C rationale:
Serum albumin levels are important for assessing nutritional status and overall health, which can impact wound healing. Low albumin levels can indicate poor nutritional status and delayed wound healing, but they do not provide immediate information about the infection itself.
Choice D rationale:
Serum blood glucose (BG) levels are crucial for managing diabetes and can affect wound healing. High blood glucose levels can impair the immune response and slow down the healing process. However, like CRP, BG levels do not provide specific information about the type of infection present in the wound.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is D. Electrolytes.
Choice A rationale: The white blood cell count (WBC) is typically reviewed for signs of infection or inflammation, but it is not directly related to numbness and tingling.
Choice B rationale: Hematocrit levels assess the proportion of red blood cells in the blood, which are not commonly associated with numbness and tingling.
Choice C rationale: Albumin and protein levels are important for nutritional status and overall health but are not directly associated with numbness and tingling.
Choice D rationale: Electrolytes are crucial for nerve function and muscle contractions. Abnormal levels of electrolytes (such as calcium, potassium, or sodium) can lead to symptoms like numbness and tingling in the extremities.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This is the factor that the PN should consider the most likely to increase the client's risk for falls because it can cause orthostatic hypotension, dizziness, or fainting, especially when the client changes position or gets up from bed or a chair. The PN should monitor the client's blood pressure and pulse before and after administering the medication and assist the client with ambulation and transfers.
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