Author Question: A low red blood cell count can be associated with a. Bacterial infection b. Recent hemorrhage ... (Read 82 times)

2125004343 · **on:** Jul 11, 2018

A low red blood cell count can be associated with

a. Bacterial infection
b. Recent hemorrhage
c. Dehydration
d. Recent viral infection

Question 2

Which of the following is an appropriate instruction for an older adult having a stool guaiac laboratory evaluation?

a. Increase vitamin C intake 2 days before the examination
b. Avoid eating red meat 2 to 3 days before the test
c. Take a laxative the evening before the test
d. Have enemas until clear the morning of the test

mfedorka · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 11, 2018

Answer to Question 1

B
Recent hemorrhage or bleeding causes a decrease in the number of red blood cells. Dehydration (response C) may cause a false elevation in the number of red blood cells counted. Generally, bacterial infections (response A) and viral infections (response D) do not affect the red blood cell count.

Answer to Question 2

B
Red meat that is ingested before a stool guaiac examination can invalidate the results. Response A is incorrect because vitamin C intake can cause false-positive results. Responses C and D are incorrect. Bowel preparations are unnecessary before a stool guaiac examination.