Which of the following laboratory tests would best help the nurse to monitor the condition of a patient with pneumonia?
a. White blood cell (WBC) count, arterial blood gases (ABGs)
b. Complete blood count (CBC), urinalysis
c. Electrolytes, serum creatinine
d. Partial thromboplastin time (PTT), serum potassium
ANS: A
WBC is elevated in infection, and ABGs may be abnormal if gas exchange is impaired with pneumonia. CBC may be helpful, but WBC is more specific. Urinalysis, electrolytes, and creatinine are useful in kidney and bladder problems, and PTT and potassium may be ordered for cardiovascular problems, among other disorders.
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An elderly patient has begun taking bisoprolol (Zebeta) 10 mg PO once daily for the treatment of angina. The nurse should administer this drug in the knowledge that it achieves a therapeutic effect in what way?
A) Decreasing heart rate B) Increasing the force of myocardial contractions C) Prolonging the QT interval D) Shortening the time required for repolarization
A 72 year old man tells the nurse that he cannot perform most of the physical activities he could do 5 years ago because of overall joint aches and pains. What can the nurse do to assist the patient to prevent further deconditioning and decrease the risk for developing musculoskeletal problems?
A. Limit weight bearing exercise to prevent stress on fragile bones and possible hip fractures. B. Advise the patient to avoid the use of canes and walkers because they increase dependence on ambulation aids. C. Advise the patient to increase his activity by more frequently climbing stairs in buildings and other environments with steps. D. Discuss the use of stretching and warm up, as well as strengthening exercises to decrease aches and pain so that exercise can be maintained.
The nurse has admitted a client to the clinical nursing unit following right-sided mastectomy. The nurse plans to place the right-sided arm in which of the following positions?
1. Level with the right-sided atrium 2. Elevated above shoulder level 3. Elevated on one or two pillows 4. Dependent to the right-sided atrium
An adolescent male is being examined for Klinefelter's syndrome. The nurse would expect which laboratory test result for this client?
A) High sperm count B) Deficiency of 5 x-reductase C) High estrogen level D) Low testosterone level