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?

The correct answer is choiceB. 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.

Choice A rationale:

Pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor used to treat GERD by reducing stomach acid production. If the client reports not experiencing heartburn after eating lunch, it indicates that the medication is effectively reducing stomach acid and alleviating GERD symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

The ability to swallow food without difficulty is not directly related to the desired effect of pantoprazole. It may be an important aspect of the client's overall condition, but it does not specifically indicate the efficacy of the medication in treating GERD.

Choice C rationale:

Having no difficulty straining for a bowel movement is unrelated to the desired effect of pantoprazole in treating GERD. Pantoprazole does not directly influence bowel movements.

Choice D rationale:

Having a great appetite and feeling hungry are not relevant indicators of the effectiveness of pantoprazole in treating GERD. These statements are more related to the client's appetite and overall well-being rather than the response to the medication.