LPN Interpreting Lab Values and Nursing Actions 3

Question 1

A patient's BUN is 35 mg/dL and creatinine is 3.2 mg/dL. These values together suggest which condition?

Accepted Answer

Impaired renal function

Answer

Both elevated BUN and creatinine together indicate impaired glomerular filtration and reduced renal function.

Question 2

A patient's platelet count is 45,000/mm³. Which nursing intervention is the highest priority?

Accepted Answer

Implement bleeding precautions and use soft-bristle toothbrush

Answer

Thrombocytopenia (<50,000/mm³) places the patient at severe bleeding risk, requiring strict bleeding precautions.

Question 3

A patient's fasting blood glucose is 58 mg/dL and they are diaphoretic and trembling. What should the LPN do first?

Accepted Answer

Give 15-20 g of fast-acting carbohydrates and recheck glucose in 15 minutes

Answer

Symptomatic hypoglycemia requires immediate treatment with 15-20 g of rapid-acting carbohydrates followed by recheck using the 15-15 rule.

Question 4

A patient's magnesium level is 1.0 mEq/L. Which clinical manifestation should the LPN monitor for?

Accepted Answer

Neuromuscular irritability and positive Trousseau's sign

Answer

Hypomagnesemia (<1.5 mEq/L) causes neuromuscular irritability; because it often co-exists with hypocalcemia, Trousseau's sign may be positive.

Question 5

A post-operative patient's hemoglobin drops from 11 g/dL to 7.2 g/dL within 4 hours. What is the priority assessment?

Accepted Answer

Assess surgical site for active bleeding and vital signs

Answer

A rapid significant hemoglobin drop post-operatively suggests active hemorrhage; immediate assessment of the wound and hemodynamic status is critical.

LPN - Licensed Practical Nurse Practice Test

LPN - Licensed Practical Nurse Practice Test

LPN Interpreting Lab Values and Nursing Actions 3