The nurse assesses a client with petechiae and ecchymosis scattered across the arms and legs. Which laboratory result should the nurse review?
Hemoglobin levels.
Red blood cell count.
White blood cell count.
Platelet count.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Hemoglobin levels can indicate anemia but are not directly related to the presence of petechiae and ecchymosis, which suggest bleeding issues.
B. The red blood cell count is also important for understanding anemia but does not specifically address the bleeding disorders indicated by the client’s symptoms.
C. The white blood cell count provides information on the immune status but does not relate to bleeding manifestations.
D. The platelet count is critical to assess because petechiae and ecchymosis can be indicative of thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), which can lead to increased bleeding tendencies. Monitoring platelet levels will help determine the cause of these symptoms.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Selecting another finger is the best action to prevent discomfort and ensure an accurate blood sample. The reddened and engorged tip may indicate that milking the finger caused bruising or altered blood flow, which can affect the glucose reading.
B. Applying pressure to the site may be appropriate after collecting a sample, but it does not address the issue of obtaining an accurate sample from an engorged finger.
C. Assessing radial pulse volume is not relevant in this situation and does not address the problem at hand.
D. Collecting the blood sample from a reddened and engorged finger could yield an inaccurate result, so it is better to select a different finger.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A nursing care plan in the medical record before assessing the patient so that the nurse can identify priorities. The nurse should assess the patient first to determine their needs and priorities rather than create a care plan without assessment.
B. At least three times during the shift: at the beginning, in the middle, at the end, and as needed. Regular documentation is good practice, but the initial assessment must be documented at the beginning of the shift to establish a baseline.
C. An initial assessment of the patient and a plan based on the needs of the patient as assessed at the beginning of the shift. Documenting an initial assessment is crucial for identifying immediate needs and planning care, especially after surgery.
D. At the end of the shift so that the nurse can give full attention to the patient's needs during the shift. Waiting until the end of the shift risks missing critical changes and does not provide a clear baseline assessment.