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 B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Malignant melanoma typically presents as a mole that changes in color, size, or feel and has irregular edges. It may also itch, ooze, or bleed. A raised, flesh-colored lesion with pearly white borders is not characteristic of malignant melanoma.
Choice B reason:
Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a raised, pearly bump, sometimes with visible blood vessels, which may have a central depression. The description of the lesion as raised, flesh-colored with pearly white borders aligns with the common presentation of basal cell carcinoma.
Choice C reason:
Squamous cell carcinoma usually presents as a firm, red nodule, or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface. The lesion described does not match the typical appearance of squamous cell carcinoma.
Choice D reason:
Actinic keratosis is characterized by rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed areas of the skin, which may be precancerous. They are not typically described as raised, flesh-colored lesions with pearly borders.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
While performing range of motion exercises is important for maintaining joint function and preventing stiffness, it is not the first action a nurse should take. Range of motion exercises should only be performed after ensuring that there is no compromise in circulation or nerve function.
Choice B Reason:
Checking capillary refill is the correct first action. This quick test assesses the blood flow to the extremity and can indicate if there is any vascular obstruction. A delayed capillary refill time, which is more than 2 seconds, could signify compromised circulation and necessitate immediate intervention.
Choice C Reason:
Discussing cast care is important for client education and preventing complications such as skin breakdown and infection. However, it is not the first priority. The nurse should first ensure the client's physiological stability before providing education.
Choice D Reason:
Managing pain is a critical component of nursing care, especially for clients with fractures. However, the assessment of circulation takes precedence over pain management. Once it is established that there is no immediate threat to the limb's viability, pain management should be addressed promptly.
In summary, the priority for a nurse assessing a client with a cast for a fractured tibia is to check the capillary refill to ensure adequate circulation. This is followed by managing pain, performing range of motion exercises, and discussing cast care with the client.