Lab Rats
What is the normal platelet count?
150,000–450,000/mm³
BNP is used to help diagnose what condition?
Heart failure
What test is performed before drawing ABGs from the radial artery?
Allen test
What IV fluid should be started if a blood transfusion reaction occurs?
Normal saline (0.9% NS)
What is the normal urine output per hour?
At least 30 mL/hr
A patient with pancytopenia is at increased risk for what?
Increased risk for bleeding
Which ventricle is affected in cor pulmonale?
Right ventricle
A common localized side effect of radiation therapy is what?
Keeps airways open, prolongs exhalation, improves CO₂ elimination
A common localized side effect of radiation therapy is what?
Localized skin injury (redness/soreness)
Gatorade should be avoided in which type of diet restriction?
Low-sodium diet
A WBC count of 2,800/µL indicates what problem?
Neutropenia (risk for infection due to bone marrow suppression)
A patient with chest pain during activity that goes away with rest likely has what condition?
Stable angina
What should the nurse do if a chest tube becomes disconnected from the suction control chamber?
Place the tubing in sterile water until it can be reconnected
Which electrolyte imbalance is most concerning in tumor lysis syndrome?
Hyperkalemia
Which electrolyte imbalance increases the risk of digoxin toxicity?
Hypokalemia
A patient with pernicious anemia often first reports what neurological symptom?
Numbness and tingling in hands and feet (paresthesias)
Which medication can cause headaches and hypotension as a side effect?
Nitroglycerin
A patient reports seeing a “curtain drop” and floaters. What is the priority action?
Notify the provider immediately (medical emergency, risk for vision loss)
What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient with multiple myeloma?
Pain management
Name two non-pharmacological lifestyle changes to manage hypertension.
Weight control, reduced salt intake, limit alcohol, regular exercise, relaxation (any two correct)
What is the most important nursing action after a bone marrow aspiration in a patient with pancytopenia?
Hold firm pressure at the site for at least 10 minutes to prevent bleeding
This is the reason why beta-blockers contraindicated in asthmatic patients?
They can cause bronchospasms (risk for bronchoconstriction)
A COPD patient becomes confused and lethargic. What acid-base imbalance should the nurse suspect?
Respiratory acidosis (from CO₂ retention)
What three bleeding precautions should be taught to a patient with chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia?
Use a soft toothbrush, avoid aspirin, and use paper tape on fragile skin
What is the first assessment priority when a patient arrives in the PACU?
Assess level of consciousness (after ABCs, neuro status is key post-anesthesia)