A nurse is reviewing the BUN and creatinine levels of an older adult patient with chronic kidney disease. The nurse should anticipate which of the following findings?
BUN 8 mg/dL and creatinine 0.7 mg/dL
BUN 45 mg/dL and creatinine 8 mg/dL
BUN 23 mg/dL and creatinine 1.0 mg/dL
BUN 10 mg/dL and creatinine 0.3 mg/dL
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
A BUN level of 8 mg/dL and a creatinine level of 0.7 mg/dL are within normal ranges for a healthy individual without kidney disease. In chronic kidney disease (CKD), we would expect these values to be elevated due to the kidneys' reduced ability to filter waste products from the blood.
Choice B reason:
A BUN level of 45 mg/dL and a creatinine level of 8 mg/dL are significantly higher than the normal range, which is consistent with impaired kidney function seen in CKD. These elevated levels indicate that the kidneys are not effectively filtering urea and creatinine from the blood, leading to their accumulation.
Choice C reason:
A BUN level of 23 mg/dL and a creatinine level of 1.0 mg/dL could be seen in the early stages of CKD. While the creatinine level is within the normal range, the BUN level is slightly elevated, which may suggest a decline in kidney function.
Choice D reason:
A BUN level of 10 mg/dL and a creatinine level of 0.3 mg/dL are both below the normal range. This is an unlikely finding for a patient with CKD, as kidney impairment typically leads to increased levels of these substances in the blood.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Administering antibiotics is a primary intervention for AGN when it is caused by a bacterial infection, such as post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Antibiotics help eliminate the infection and prevent further damage to the glomeruli.
Choice B Reason:
Encouraging increased fluid intake is not typically recommended for AGN, especially if the client has oliguria or edema, which are common in this condition. Fluid intake may need to be restricted to prevent fluid overload and worsening of hypertension.
Choice C Reason:
Frequent ambulation is not a priority intervention for AGN. While maintaining mobility is important, it does not directly address the renal inflammation or potential complications associated with AGN.
Choice D Reason:
Obtaining weight weekly is important for monitoring fluid status, but it is not the primary intervention. Daily weight measurements are more indicative of fluid retention or loss and are essential for closely monitoring the client's fluid balance.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Generalized urticaria, or hives, is not a common side effect of radiation therapy for lung cancer. While skin reactions can occur, they are usually localized to the area being treated. Urticaria might be a sign of an allergic reaction, which would require immediate attention, but it is not typically associated with radiation therapy.
Choice B reason:
Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a common side effect of radiation therapy, especially when the radiation field includes salivary glands. For lung cancer patients, if the radiation field is near the neck or upper chest, it could potentially affect salivary gland function. Monitoring for xerostomia is important because it can lead to difficulties in speaking, eating, and swallowing, and it increases the risk for dental problems.
Choice C reason:
While reviewing laboratory test results for low hemoglobin is an important part of nursing care, it is not specific to radiation therapy for lung cancer. Low hemoglobin could be related to the cancer itself or a side effect of other treatments like chemotherapy. It is important to monitor, but not the primary action related to radiation therapy.
Choice D reason:
Observing for signs of infection is a general nursing responsibility for all patients, not specific to those receiving radiation therapy for lung cancer. However, if the patient's immune system is compromised due to the cancer or other treatments, vigilance for infection is heightened.