Author Question: The nurse is reviewing laboratory reports for multiple patients. Which patient's laboratory values ... (Read 94 times)

jhjkgdfhk · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

The nurse is reviewing laboratory reports for multiple patients. Which patient's laboratory values require the nurse's immediate attention?

a. Hemoglobin (Hgb) of 7.1 g/dL; white blood cell (WBC) count of 4500 mL/mm3
b. Potassium of 5.5 mEq/L; WBC count of 7000 mL/mm3
c. Sodium of 129 mEq/L; WBC of 6000 mL/mm3; 13.2 g/dL
d. Calcium of 8.8 mg/dL; WBC count of 8000 mL/mm3

Question 2

When can the LPN/LVN apply a physical restraint to a resident in a long-term care facility? (Select all that apply.)

a. If an order for the restraint is obtained within 12 hours of application.
b. If all other measures have been attempted and failed.
c. If documentation is made on all failed at-tempts.
d. If the family is unable to stay with the resident.
e. If the least restrictive device is chosen.

kaillie · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A
All of the WBC counts are normal. The nurse must then decide which other laboratory value re-quires the most urgent attention. The Hgb is critically low and requires immediate intervention (likely a transfusion). The low Hgb suggests possible anemia or blood loss. The normal Hgb range for adults is: females, 12.0 to 16.7 g/dL; males, 13.0 to 18.0 g/dL. The potassium of 5.5 mEq/L is at the top of the normal range and requires close monitoring for potential cardiac complications but is less urgent than the critical value. The sodium of 129 mEq/L is at the low end of the normal range and requires close monitoring but is less urgent than the critical value. The calcium level of 8.8 mg/dL is a normal value.

Answer to Question 2

B, C, D, E
The order for the restraint must be obtained within 24 to 48 hours after application of the device. The LPN/LVN who applies a physical restraint must have satisfied all of the other options.