LPN Interpreting Lab Values and Nursing Actions 4

Question 1

A patient's urinalysis shows glucose 3+ and ketones 2+. What condition does the LPN suspect?

Accepted Answer

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)

Answer

Glucosuria and ketonuria together are hallmark findings of diabetic ketoacidosis due to insulin deficiency and fat catabolism.

Question 2

A patient's serum albumin is 2.1 g/dL. Which complication is the patient most at risk for?

Accepted Answer

Edema and impaired wound healing

Answer

Low albumin (<3.5 g/dL) reduces plasma oncotic pressure, causing third-spacing and edema, and impairs tissue repair.

Question 3

A patient's ABG shows pH 7.50, PaCO2 50 mmHg, HCO3 38 mEq/L. What does this indicate?

Accepted Answer

Metabolic alkalosis with respiratory compensation

Answer

High pH and high HCO3 indicate metabolic alkalosis; the elevated PaCO2 reflects hypoventilation as respiratory compensation.

Question 4

A patient has an LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) of 850 U/L. Which condition is this finding most associated with?

Accepted Answer

Tissue damage such as MI, hemolysis, or liver injury

Answer

Elevated LDH indicates widespread tissue damage and is non-specifically elevated in MI, hemolytic anemia, and hepatic injury.

Question 5

A patient receiving a blood transfusion develops flank pain and dark urine. Which lab change would confirm a hemolytic transfusion reaction?

Accepted Answer

Elevated plasma free hemoglobin and hemoglobinuria

Answer

Hemolysis releases free hemoglobin into the plasma and urine, producing hemoglobinemia and hemoglobinuria as definitive markers of a hemolytic reaction.

LPN - Licensed Practical Nurse Practice Test

LPN - Licensed Practical Nurse Practice Test

LPN Interpreting Lab Values and Nursing Actions 4