K.N. calls your anticoagulation clinic to report a nosebleed that is hard to stop. You ask him to come into the office to check his coagulation levels. The laboratory technician draws a PT/INR test
What is a PT/INR test, and what are the expected levels for K.N.? What is the purpose of the INR?
PT stands for prothrombin time and is used to monitor the adequacy of warfarin therapy. However,
PT results can vary from facility to facility because of different reagents or methods used. INR stands
for international normalized ratio, a mathematical calculation. INR results are independent of the
reagents or methods used, thus providing more standardized monitoring. INR goals vary according
to the indication. For deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis, the preferred INR levels would be 1.5 to
2.0. For atrial fibrillation, the preferred INR is 2.0 to 3.0. However, because K.N. also has a mechanical
valve, the preferred INR would be as high as 2.5 to 3.5.
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An older adult client is admitted to the medical-surgical unit for a hip fracture. During postoperative recovery, the nurse notices a stage I pressure ulcer forming on the client's sacrum
Which action by the nurse is appropriate to reduce the progression of this ulceration? A) Maintain the head of the bed at 30 ° angle, with client positioned on the right or left side. B) Apply a heat lamp to the area to increase circulation. C) Apply a dry dressing to the pressure ulcer. D) Maintain the head of the bed at 45 ° angle.
Utilizing the example of the unit-specific competency tool for the Emergency Department, there are a number of skills that are specific to any new nurse. Which of the following is not necessarily correct?
a. monitor data so that I am up to date on evidence-based care for my patients b. network primarily with other nurses c. participate in professional committees at work d. communicate pride in being a nurse
The nurse is planning care for a patient with severe burns. Which of the following is this patient at risk for developing?
1. Intracellular fluid deficit 2. Intracellular fluid overload 3. Extracellular fluid deficit 4. Interstitial fluid deficit
The certified diabetes educator (CDE) has encouraged a patient with metabolic syndrome who experienced hyperglycemia during hospitalization to attend outpatient diabetes education classes
The patient asks why the classes are needed if diabetes is not a health problem. What is the nurse's best response? 1. "The certified diabetes educator (CDE) saw that you had high blood sugars while in the ICU. I will let her know that you are not diabetic." 2. "You will learn about healthy diet, weight management, and exercise. This knowledge can delay the onset of type 2 diabetes." 3. "If you maintain a healthy diet, correct weight, and exercise you can delay the onset of type 2 diabetes." 4. "The class is only for those with diabetes. If you become diabetic you may attend the class."