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    HESI PN Exit Proctored ExamQuestion 17
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    HESI PN Exit Proctored Exam

    While changing the dressing of a client who is immobile, the practical nurse (PN) observes a red and swollen wound with a moderate amount of yellow and green drainage and a foul odor. Before reporting this finding to the healthcare provider, the PN should evaluate which of the client's laboratory values?

    Explanation & Rationale

    The correct answer is choice B: Culture for sensitive organisms. Choice A rationale: C-reactive protein level - C-reactive protein (CRP) is a blood test marker for inflammation in the body. While it could indicate an infection, it is not specific enough to identify the type of infection or the causative organism. Choice B rationale: Culture for sensitive organisms - When a wound has a moderate amount of yellow and green drainage and a foul odor, it is often a sign of a bacterial infection. A culture for sensitive organisms can help identify the specific bacteria causing the infection, which is crucial for determining the most effective treatment. Choice C rationale: Serum albumin - Serum albumin levels can indicate a person’s nutritional status. Low levels can slow wound healing, but they do not directly indicate the presence of an infection. Choice D rationale: Serum blood glucose (BG) level - High blood glucose levels can impair the immune response and slow wound healing, making a person more susceptible to infections. However, like CRP, it does not provide information about the specific organism causing the infection.

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