Fundamentals of Nursing Q 556

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For a client who is taking aspirin, which laboratory value should be reported to the physician?

  

     A. Potassium 3.6 mEq/L

     B. Hematocrit 41%

     C. PT 14 seconds

     D. BUN 20 mg/dL

    

    

Correct Answer: C. PT 14 seconds

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When a client takes aspirin, monitor for increases in PT (normal range 11.0-12.5 seconds in 85%-100%). Also, monitor for possible decreases in potassium (normal range 3.5-5.0 mEq/L). If bleeding signs are noted, hematocrit should be monitored (normal range male 42%-52%, female 37%-47%). An elevated BUN could be seen if the client is having chronic gastrointestinal bleeding (normal range 10-20 mg/dL).

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Option A: Severity is categorized as mild when the serum potassium level is 3 to 3.4 mmol/L, moderate when the serum potassium level is 2.5 to 3 mmol/L, and severe when the serum potassium level is less than 2.5 mmol/L. Values obtained from plasma and serum may differ.

Option B: HCT calculation is by dividing the lengths of the packed RBC layer by the length of total cells and plasma. As it is a ratio, it doesn’t have any unit. Multiplying the ratio by 100 gives the accurate value, which is the accepted reporting style for HCT. A normal adult male shows an HCT of 40% to 54% and female shows 36% to 48%.

Option D: BUN and creatinine levels that are within the ranges established by the laboratory performing the test suggest that the kidneys are functioning as they should. Increased BUN and creatinine levels may mean that the kidneys are not working as they should. This healthcare practitioner will consider other factors, such as the medical history and physical exam, to determine what condition, if any, may be affecting the kidneys.

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