a nurse is caring for a patient with an infection which laboratory result is most important to monitor
Logo

Nursing Elites

ATI RN

RN ATI Capstone Proctored Comprehensive Assessment 2019 A with NGN

1. A nurse is caring for a patient with an infection. Which laboratory result is most important to monitor?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: White blood cell count (WBC). Monitoring the white blood cell count is crucial when caring for a patient with an infection as it helps assess the body's response to the infection. An elevated white blood cell count often indicates an active infection or inflammation, while a decreasing count may signal improvement or potential complications. C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) are nonspecific markers of inflammation and not as specific to monitoring infection progression as the white blood cell count. Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are important for assessing oxygen-carrying capacity and blood volume, but they are not the primary indicators for monitoring infection.

2. A client who is 97 years old has successfully been treated for heart failure and is found not breathing. There is no DNR order in place. What should the nurse do?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, with no DNR order in place and the client not breathing, the nurse should initiate CPR and call for emergency assistance. Option A is incorrect as immediate action is required in the absence of breathing. Option C is incorrect as the nurse should act promptly to provide life-saving measures. Option D is incorrect because the nurse's primary duty is to provide care in the absence of a directive preventing intervention.

3. After signing an informed consent form, a client states, 'I have changed my mind and do not want to have the procedure.' Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation is to notify the surgeon that the client wishes to withdraw informed consent for the procedure. This ensures that the client's right to refuse treatment is respected. Choice A is incorrect because involving family members in this decision could violate the client's autonomy. Choice C is incorrect as it does not address the immediate need to respect the client's decision. Choice D is also incorrect as the client has clearly stated their refusal of the procedure.

4. A family was referred to crisis intervention services after a natural disaster. One family member refuses to attend, stating, 'No way, I'm not crazy.' What is the nurse's best response?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should reassure the family member that seeking help does not imply mental illness, but is part of coping with the disaster.

5. A healthcare professional is assessing a patient's fluid balance. What is the most reliable indicator of fluid status?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Checking the patient's weight daily is the most reliable indicator of fluid status because weight changes can directly reflect fluid retention or loss. Monitoring vital signs (Choice A) can provide some information but is not as specific as weight changes. Measuring intake and output (Choice C) is crucial but may not always accurately reflect fluid balance. Monitoring urine color (Choice D) can give some insights into hydration levels, but it is not as reliable as daily weight checks for assessing overall fluid status.

Similar Questions

A healthcare professional is preparing to administer an intravenous (IV) medication. What action should the healthcare professional take to ensure patient safety?
When providing discharge instructions for a patient with diabetes, what is the most important information to include?
A client with leukemia is considered for a bone marrow transplant. Which principle of healthcare ethics is being practiced by minimizing harm to the client?
A nurse manager is teaching a group of staff members about proper body mechanics. Which of the following statements by a staff member indicates an understanding of the teaching?
A nurse is assigned to care for four clients. Which client should the nurse assess first?

Access More Features

ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses