While caring for a client with a full thickness burn covering 40% of the body, the nurse observes purulent drainage at the wound. Before reporting this finding to the healthcare provider, the nurse should review which of the client's laboratory values?
Hematocrit.
Blood pH level.
Platelet count.
White blood cell (WBC) count.
The Correct Answer is D
A. While hematocrit levels provide information about blood volume status, they are not directly relevant to infection status or wound healing in burn patients.
B. Blood pH levels can indicate acid-base imbalances, but they do not specifically inform the nurse about the presence of infection.
C. Platelet count is important for assessing coagulation and bleeding risks, but it does not provide direct information regarding infection.
D. White blood cell (WBC) count is critical in assessing for infection, as an elevated WBC count can indicate the presence of an infection, particularly in a client with significant burns who is at increased risk for sepsis.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Bronze pigmentation is often associated with venous insufficiency rather than arterial compromise.
B. Compromised peripheral arterial circulation can lead to decreased blood flow, resulting in uneven or diminished hair distribution on the lower extremities due to lack of nourishment to hair follicles.
C. Lower leg edema is more commonly associated with venous insufficiency rather than arterial insufficiency.
D. A bounding peripheral pulse indicates increased arterial pressure or volume, which is not consistent with compromised arterial circulation, where pulses are typically weak or absent.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic used for moderate to severe pain management but is not typically the first-line medication in acute coronary syndrome scenarios.
B. Fentanyl is a potent opioid that may be used for severe pain; however, morphine is more commonly used in emergency situations for chest pain related to potential myocardial infarction.
C. Morphine is commonly used in emergency departments for the management of acute chest pain, particularly when associated with myocardial ischemia. It helps reduce pain and anxiety, lowers myocardial oxygen demand, and has vasodilatory effects that can alleviate the burden on the heart.
D. Hydromorphone is another opioid analgesic but is not usually the preferred choice for chest pain in the acute setting compared to morphine.