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.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Latent hepatitis C is not an absolute contraindication for peritoneal dialysis, and patients with this condition can often undergo dialysis with appropriate precautions.
B. Crohn's disease with a history of colectomy poses a risk for peritoneal dialysis due to potential intra-abdominal adhesions and infection, which can complicate the procedure and increase the risk of peritonitis.
C. A history of nephrotic syndrome does not contraindicate peritoneal dialysis; patients with nephrotic syndrome may still be candidates depending on their overall kidney function and health status.
D. Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a common condition among patients needing dialysis and does not preclude the use of peritoneal dialysis, as long as blood sugar levels are managed effectively.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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.