While changing a client’s postoperative dressing, the nurse observes purulent drainage at the wound. Before reporting this finding to the healthcare provider, the nurse should note which of the client’s laboratory values?
Serum blood glucose level.
Culture for sensitive organisms.
C-reactive protein level.
Blood pH level.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Serum blood glucose level is not directly related to the presence of purulent drainage at a wound site. While blood glucose levels can affect wound healing, they do not provide specific information about the presence of infection.
Choice B rationale
Culture for sensitive organisms is the most appropriate laboratory value to note when purulent drainage is observed. This test helps identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and determines the most effective antibiotics for treatment.
Choice C rationale
C-reactive protein (CRP) level is a marker of inflammation and can indicate the presence of an infection, but it does not provide specific information about the bacteria causing the infection.
Choice D rationale
Blood pH level is not directly related to the presence of purulent drainage at a wound site. While blood pH can be affected by severe infections, it is not a specific indicator of wound infection.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The severity of nausea and vomiting and serum amylase results are crucial in diagnosing and managing pancreatitis. Elevated serum amylase levels are a key indicator of pancreatitis, and the severity of nausea and vomiting can help assess the patient’s condition and response to treatment.
Choice B rationale
Reports of chronic constipation and serum gastrin levels are not directly related to the acute management of pancreatitis. Chronic constipation is more associated with gastrointestinal motility disorders, and serum gastrin levels are typically measured in conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
Choice C rationale
Serum Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) antibody results and urine output amounts are not directly relevant to the acute management of pancreatitis. H. pylori is associated with peptic ulcer disease, and urine output is more relevant in assessing renal function.
Choice D rationale
The presence of bowel sounds and the degree of abdominal pain are important but not as specific as serum amylase levels in diagnosing pancreatitis. Bowel sounds can be affected by various conditions, and abdominal pain is a common symptom in many gastrointestinal disorders.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Anxiety and grieving are important issues but are not the priority when the client is at risk for aspiration.
Choice B rationale
Chronic pain is significant, but the immediate risk of aspiration due to dysphagia takes precedence.
Choice C rationale
Risk for aspiration related to difficulty swallowing is the priority nursing problem. Aspiration can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia.
Choice D rationale
Imbalanced nutrition is important but is secondary to the immediate risk of aspiration.