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    Rn Comprehensive predictor 2023 proctored exam
    Select All That Apply

    A nurse is caring for a client who is admitted to the medical-surgical unit. Exhibits The nurse reviews the client's laboratory findings and vital signs. Select the 5 findings that require immediate follow-up.

    Explanation & Rationale

    Rationale for correct choices: Blood pressure: The client’s blood pressure is 90/50 mm Hg, indicating hypotension. This can signal volume depletion or active bleeding, which requires immediate assessment and intervention to prevent shock or organ hypoperfusion. Hemoglobin and hematocrit: Hemoglobin of 9.1 g/dL and hematocrit of 27% indicate significant anemia, likely from gastrointestinal blood loss. Immediate follow-up is necessary to determine the source and provide interventions such as fluid resuscitation or transfusion. Heart rate: The client’s heart rate is 118/min, demonstrating tachycardia. This may be compensatory for hypotension or blood loss, suggesting hemodynamic instability and requiring prompt monitoring and intervention. Stool results: Positive hemoccult indicates gastrointestinal bleeding, which aligns with anemia and tachycardia. Identifying and managing the bleeding source is a priority to prevent further complications. Current medication: The client takes high-dose ibuprofen (800 mg three times daily), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs increase the risk for peptic ulcer disease and gastrointestinal bleeding, contributing to the client’s current presentation and requiring immediate provider notification. Rationale for incorrect choices: Temperature: The client’s temperature is 37.5° C (99.5° F), slightly elevated but not indicative of infection or immediate risk. Monitoring is appropriate but not urgent. WBC count: WBC is 6,700/mm³, within normal limits, indicating no current infection or acute inflammatory response. This does not require immediate follow-up. Respiratory rate: Respiratory rate is 18/min, within normal limits for an adult, and does not indicate acute respiratory distress. Immediate intervention is not necessary.

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