Blood and Cardiovascular Disorders > Medical Surgical
Exam Review
Hemorrhage
Total Questions : 40
Showing 40 questions, Sign in for moreExplanation
A) Correct. Dizziness and lightheadedness are common signs of decreased blood flow, indicating a potential worsening of internal bleeding. Immediate intervention is required to prevent further complications.
B) Incorrect. While a slightly decreased blood pressure could be a concern, it may not be an immediate priority. The nurse should closely monitor the blood pressure and respond promptly if it drops significantly or trends downward.
C) Incorrect. Pale and cool skin may indicate poor perfusion, but it doesn't necessarily require immediate intervention unless it worsens or is accompanied by other alarming signs.
D) Incorrect. Although heart rate can be affected by hemorrhage, being within the normal range doesn't necessarily warrant immediate intervention. Other signs and symptoms should be considered as well.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Hemoglobin levels may initially be normal or slightly decreased, but they would decrease later due to the body's compensatory response to dilute the remaining blood.
B) Incorrect. Platelet count may not be significantly affected in the early stages of hemorrhage. It is mainly responsible for clot formation, which becomes more relevant in the later stages.
C) Incorrect. In the early stages of hemorrhage, the white blood cell count is not significantly affected. It plays a role in fighting infection and inflammation.
D) Correct. Hematocrit levels represent the proportion of red blood cells in the blood. During early stages of hemorrhage, there is a loss of red blood cells, leading to decreased hematocrit levels.
Explanation
A) Correct. Anticoagulant medication can interfere with the body's clotting mechanism, increasing the risk of bleeding.
B) Correct. A family history of bleeding disorders can be a risk factor for hemorrhage due to potential genetic predisposition.
C) Incorrect. Regular low-impact exercise is a positive lifestyle choice that helps maintain cardiovascular health and does not directly contribute to an increased risk of hemorrhage.
D) Correct. Recent major surgery can be a risk factor for hemorrhage due to potential surgical site bleeding or complications.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is not typically an early indicator of internal bleeding. It may occur later as the body attempts to compensate for blood loss.
B) Correct. Bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate) is an early sign of internal bleeding. It is a compensatory response to maintain blood pressure and perfusion in the early stages of hemorrhage.
C) Incorrect. Tachypnea (rapid breathing) may occur in response to hypoxia due to significant blood loss, but it is not an early indicator of internal bleeding.
D) Incorrect. Hyperthermia (elevated body temperature) is not a typical early sign of internal bleeding. It may indicate infection or inflammation but is not specific to hemorrhage.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Aspirin is an antiplatelet medication and can increase the risk of bleeding, so it should be avoided in clients at risk of hemorrhage.
B) Incorrect. Encouraging the client to participate in contact sports can increase the risk of trauma and bleeding, and it is not a preventive action.
C) Correct. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush for oral care can prevent gum and oral tissue injury, reducing the risk of bleeding in vulnerable clients.
D) Incorrect. Monitoring platelet levels daily is not a preventive action but a method of assessing the client's clotting status.
Questions
Explanation
A) Correct. A previous c-section can be a risk factor for postpartum hemorrhage due to potential scar tissue and changes in uterine contractility.
B) Correct. A history of clotting disorders in the family can increase the client's risk of bleeding during and after childbirth.
C) Correct. Carrying twins can lead to a higher risk of postpartum hemorrhage due to increased strain on the uterus and potential issues with placental separation.
D) Incorrect. Exclusive breastfeeding is not a risk factor for postpartum hemorrhage. In fact, breastfeeding can help stimulate uterine contractions, which may reduce bleeding after childbirth.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While hypertension can be a risk factor for cardiovascular issues, it is not directly associated with an increased risk of hemorrhage.
B) Correct. Anticoagulant medication can interfere with the body's clotting mechanisms, making the client more susceptible to bleeding and hemorrhage.
C) Incorrect. Being a regular blood donor does not inherently increase the risk of hemorrhage unless the client donates too frequently, leading to anemia.
D) Incorrect. Having a balanced diet is essential for overall health, but it is not a specific risk factor for hemorrhage.
Explanation
A) Correct. In liver cirrhosis, the damaged liver may sequester platelets, leading to a decreased platelet count. However, an elevated platelet count (thrombocytosis) can occur as a compensatory response to decreased liver function and is a sign of an increased risk of hemorrhage due to poor clot formation.
B) Incorrect. Low prothrombin time (PT) indicates faster clotting and is not associated with an increased risk of hemorrhage.
C) Incorrect. Decreased ammonia levels are a positive finding in liver cirrhosis, as elevated ammonia levels are harmful to the brain.
D) Incorrect. Elevated liver enzymes are indicative of liver damage, but they do not directly impact the client's risk of hemorrhage.
Explanation
A) Correct. Chronic use of NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of gastric ulcers, including duodenal ulcers.
B) Incorrect. A diet high in fiber and whole grains is generally beneficial and does not directly cause duodenal ulcers.
C) Incorrect. While acidic foods and beverages may aggravate existing ulcers, they are not the primary cause of the ulcer.
D) Incorrect. Excessive intake of vitamin K-rich foods can promote blood clotting and is not a cause of duodenal ulcers.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Hemophilia does not increase the risk of forming blood clots. In fact, it causes difficulty in forming blood clots, leading to an increased risk of bleeding and hemorrhage.
B) Incorrect. Platelet count is not directly affected in hemophilia. It is primarily a disorder of clotting factors.
C) Correct. Hemophilia is a genetic disorder characterized by a deficiency or absence of specific clotting factors, which impairs the blood's ability to clot properly.
D) Incorrect. Hemophilia does not affect the number of red blood cells, which are responsible for oxygen transport.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. In DIC, platelet consumption and depletion occur due to widespread clot formation, leading to a decreased platelet count.
B) Incorrect. While inadequate production of clotting factors could lead to bleeding disorders, DIC is characterized by uncontrolled activation of the clotting cascade, leading to excessive clot formation initially, followed by consumption of clotting factors and increased bleeding.
C) Correct. DIC is a serious condition in which there is widespread activation of the clotting cascade, causing the formation of numerous small blood clots throughout the body. These clots can lead to organ dysfunction and excessive bleeding.
D) Incorrect. DIC is associated with decreased platelet count due to the consumption of platelets in the formation of multiple small clots.
Questions
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Bradycardia is not typically an early clinical manifestation of hemorrhage. The body may initially compensate for the blood loss by increasing heart rate (tachycardia).
B) Incorrect. Hypotension may occur later in the course of hemorrhage as blood loss progresses, but it is not an early manifestation.
C) Incorrect. Pallor (pale skin) may occur later as a result of decreased blood volume, but it is not an early sign.
D) Correct. Restlessness and anxiety are early manifestations of hemorrhage, reflecting the body's compensatory response to maintain perfusion in the early stages of blood loss.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Swelling and bruising around the wound are common signs of external bleeding and do not directly indicate internal bleeding.
B) Correct. Cool and pale skin in the extremities may be indicative of vasoconstriction and reduced blood flow, which can occur in response to internal bleeding.
C) Incorrect. Blood oozing from the wound site is a typical sign of external bleeding and does not necessarily indicate internal bleeding.
D) Incorrect. Visible blood clot formation at the wound site is a normal part of the body's hemostatic response to control external bleeding and does not directly suggest internal bleeding.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Bright red blood in the stool typically indicates lower gastrointestinal bleeding, such as from hemorrhoids or anal fissures.
B) Correct. A tarry and sticky appearance of the stool, also known as melena, is characteristic of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. The dark color is due to the digestion of blood in the stomach.
C) Incorrect. A yellowish color of the stool is not associated with gastrointestinal bleeding. It can be related to other factors like diet or liver issues.
D) Incorrect. Clay-colored stools are pale and occur with problems in the biliary system, not with gastrointestinal bleeding.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. A complete blood count (CBC) provides information about the client's red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, but it does not directly assess clotting function.
B) Incorrect. Serum electrolytes help assess the body's fluid balance and various organ functions, but they do not specifically indicate clotting function.
C) Correct. Prothrombin time (PT) is a measure of the time it takes for the blood to clot, primarily assessing the function of the extrinsic pathway of coagulation. It is an essential test in evaluating clotting disorders.
D) Incorrect. Blood glucose level is not directly related to clotting function and is more indicative of a client's metabolic status.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While the respiratory rate is an important vital sign to monitor, it does not directly indicate the effectiveness of a blood transfusion.
B) Incorrect. Blood pressure is a critical vital sign, but it is not specific to assessing the effectiveness of a blood transfusion.
C) Incorrect. Urinary output is essential for assessing kidney function and fluid balance, but it does not directly reflect the impact of a blood transfusion.
D) Correct. Monitoring the hemoglobin level is crucial to determine if the blood transfusion has been effective in increasing the client's red blood cell count and improving oxygen-carrying capacity.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. A neurological assessment is important to evaluate the client's central nervous system function, but it is not directly related to identifying bleeding sources.
B) Correct. A skin integrity assessment is essential to identify potential external bleeding sources, such as cuts, bruises, or petechiae, which may indicate underlying bleeding disorders.
C) Incorrect. While an abdominal assessment is crucial in identifying internal bleeding in the abdominal area, it is not the most essential assessment to identify bleeding sources overall.
D) Incorrect. A respiratory assessment is important for assessing oxygenation and respiratory status, but it is not the primary assessment to identify bleeding sources.
Questions
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While a complete blood count (CBC) provides valuable information about the client's red blood cell count and hemoglobin levels, it does not directly confirm the presence of bleeding or assess the clotting function.
B) Incorrect. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a valuable tool for diagnosing various conditions but is not a primary test for confirming the presence of bleeding.
C) Correct. A coagulation panel, which includes prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (PTT), helps assess the clotting function and can aid in confirming the presence of bleeding and identifying coagulation disorders.
D) Incorrect. Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) is used to detect hidden blood in stool, which is indicative of lower gastrointestinal bleeding, but it does not confirm internal bleeding in other areas of the body.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Acute blood loss does not typically lead to a decreased platelet count. Platelet levels may remain within the normal range or slightly decrease due to hemodilution.
B) Correct. In acute blood loss, the concentration of red blood cells decreases, leading to hemoconcentration and elevated hemoglobin levels. This is the body's initial response to conserve oxygen-carrying capacity.
C) Incorrect. An increased white blood cell count is not a direct result of acute blood loss and may indicate other inflammatory or infectious processes.
D) Incorrect. Elevated liver enzymes are not a typical finding in acute blood loss. They are more indicative of liver injury or dysfunction.
Explanation
A) Correct. Arteriography is a radiographic procedure that uses contrast dye to visualize the blood vessels and can precisely identify the location and cause of bleeding, especially in cases of significant hemorrhage.
B) Incorrect. An electrocardiogram (ECG) is used to assess the heart's electrical activity and is not relevant to identifying the location of bleeding.
C) Incorrect. A chest X-ray may be performed for various respiratory or cardiovascular assessments, but it is not specific to identifying the cause of bleeding.
D) Incorrect. A complete blood count (CBC) provides valuable information about the client's red blood cells and hemoglobin levels but does not directly identify the exact location and cause of bleeding.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Gastric analysis is not commonly used to confirm the presence of blood in the stomach or identify the source of bleeding.
B) Incorrect. Abdominal ultrasound may be helpful in evaluating certain abdominal conditions but is not the primary test for diagnosing upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
C) Correct. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a direct visualization procedure that uses a flexible endoscope to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It allows for visualization of the source of bleeding and potential interventions like cauterization or sclerotherapy.
D) Incorrect. Stool culture is used to detect gastrointestinal infections but is not specific to diagnosing upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Explanation
A) Correct. Bone marrow aspiration involves the removal of a small sample of bone marrow from the hip bone to assess the production of blood cells and identify potential causes of bleeding disorders.
B) Incorrect. The statement describes an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), which is not the procedure scheduled for this client.
C) Incorrect. Monitoring blood pressure and heart rate is essential during any procedure, but it is not specific to bone marrow aspiration.
D) Incorrect. An ultrasound is not relevant to a bone marrow aspiration procedure and is not used to assess bleeding disorders. It is typically used for imaging soft tissues and organs.
Questions
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While pain management is essential, it is not the priority when dealing with active bleeding that requires immediate intervention.
B) Incorrect. Positioning the client comfortably is important, but it is not the priority when there is active bleeding.
C) Correct. The priority intervention is to apply direct pressure to the bleeding site to control and reduce bleeding until further assessment and medical assistance can be obtained.
D) Incorrect. Obtaining a detailed health history is valuable for understanding the client's overall health, but it is not the priority when the client is actively bleeding and requires immediate intervention.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Checking the client's blood pressure is important but not the most critical action before starting a blood transfusion.
B) Correct. The most crucial step before administering any intervention, including a blood transfusion, is to verify the client's identification using two identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth or medical record number) to ensure the right blood is given to the right client.
C) Incorrect. While assessing the client's oxygen saturation is important, it is not the priority before starting a blood transfusion.
D) Incorrect. Obtaining consent for the blood transfusion is essential, but verifying the client's identification is more critical before administering the transfusion.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Administering oxygen is essential for a client experiencing difficulty breathing, but the nurse's immediate action should be to stop the blood transfusion and notify the healthcare provider.
B) Incorrect. While assessing the client's vital signs is important, the priority action is to stop the blood transfusion and seek immediate medical assistance.
C) Correct. Sudden difficulty breathing and chest pain after a blood transfusion may indicate an allergic reaction or transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI). The nurse should stop the transfusion immediately and inform the healthcare provider.
D) Incorrect. Elevating the head of the client's bed may be helpful in managing respiratory distress, but it is not the priority when there is a potential adverse reaction to the blood transfusion.
Explanation
A) Correct. Electric razors are safer than traditional razors because they reduce the risk of cuts and bleeding in clients with bleeding disorders.
B) Incorrect. Adequate hydration is essential for overall health, and limiting fluid intake is not recommended for clients with bleeding disorders.
C) Incorrect. High-impact exercises can increase the risk of injury and bleeding in clients with bleeding disorders. Low-impact exercises are preferable.
D) Incorrect. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can increase the risk of bleeding and should be avoided by clients with bleeding disorders.
Explanation
A) Correct. Anticoagulant therapy prevents blood from clotting effectively, which can lead to an increased risk of bleeding.
B) Incorrect. Anticoagulant therapy is not associated with elevated blood pressure readings.
C) Incorrect. Hyperactivity and restlessness are not typical adverse effects of anticoagulant therapy.
D) Incorrect. Anticoagulant therapy does not increase blood viscosity (thickness); instead, it reduces the blood's ability to form clots.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Applying a warm compress may promote vasodilation and increase bleeding in the joint. It is not recommended for managing joint bleeding in a client with hemophilia.
B) Correct. The priority intervention for managing joint bleeding in a client with hemophilia is to administer prescribed clotting factor replacement therapy to promote clot formation and stop the bleeding.
C) Incorrect. Elevating the affected joint can help reduce swelling, but it is not the priority intervention when the client is experiencing an acute joint bleed.
D) Incorrect. Encouraging active range of motion exercises can worsen joint bleeding and is contraindicated in a client with acute joint bleeding due to hemophilia.
Questions
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While pain management is important, it is not the priority in the management of massive hemorrhage and hypovolemia.
B) Correct. The priority intervention for a client experiencing massive hemorrhage and hypovolemia is to initiate a blood transfusion to replace lost blood and improve oxygen-carrying capacity.
C) Incorrect. Emotional support is essential, but it is not the priority in the acute management of hemorrhage and hypovolemia.
D) Incorrect. Deep breathing exercises are not the priority when the client is experiencing massive hemorrhage and requires urgent interventions to stabilize their condition.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Topical antiseptics, such as hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, can help prevent infection but are safe to use on minor cuts when applied correctly.
B) Correct. Applying direct pressure to the bleeding site for at least 10 minutes helps control minor bleeding and allows the blood to clot, reducing the risk of excessive bleeding.
C) Incorrect. Aspirin is an antiplatelet medication and can increase the risk of bleeding. It should not be used to stop bleeding quickly without medical guidance.
D) Incorrect. Elevating the affected limb above the heart level is not typically necessary for minor bleeding episodes and may not be practical for all bleeding sites.
Explanation
A) Correct. The priority during the initial resuscitation phase of hypovolemic shock is to replace lost intravascular volume promptly. Administering IV fluids rapidly is crucial to improve tissue perfusion and blood pressure.
B) Incorrect. While administering supplemental oxygen is important for tissue oxygenation, it is not the primary intervention during the initial resuscitation phase.
C) Incorrect. Monitoring blood glucose levels is important for overall assessment but is not the priority during the initial resuscitation phase of hypovolemic shock.
D) Incorrect. Neurological assessments are essential but may not be the immediate priority during the initial resuscitation phase of hypovolemic shock.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Bradycardia is not typically an early sign of compensatory response to hypovolemia. The body often responds to hypovolemia with an increased heart rate (tachycardia).
B) Correct. In the early stages of hypovolemia, the body may attempt to compensate by increasing blood pressure to maintain perfusion to vital organs.
C) Incorrect. Warm, flushed skin may be present in the initial stages of hypovolemia, but it is not necessarily an early sign of compensatory response.
D) Incorrect. Decreased urine output is a later sign of hypovolemia when the body's compensatory mechanisms are no longer effective in maintaining blood flow to the kidneys.
Explanation
A) Correct. Before administering a blood transfusion, obtaining informed consent from the client is essential to ensure the client understands the procedure, its potential risks, and provides their voluntary agreement for the transfusion.
B) Incorrect. While pain assessment is important, it is not the most crucial action before starting a blood transfusion.
C) Incorrect. Prophylactic antibiotics are not typically administered before a blood transfusion unless specifically indicated for the client's condition.
D) Incorrect. While taking vital signs is important, obtaining consent is more critical before starting a blood transfusion.
Explanation
A) Correct. A CT scan is a valuable diagnostic tool to identify the cause and source of bleeding, especially in cases of significant hemorrhage.
B) Incorrect. While a complete blood count (CBC) provides valuable information about the client's red blood cells and hemoglobin levels, it does not directly identify the cause and source of bleeding.
C) Incorrect. An electrocardiogram (ECG) is used to assess the heart's electrical activity and is not relevant to identifying the cause and source of bleeding.
D) Incorrect. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is helpful in diagnosing various conditions but is not the primary test for identifying the cause and source of bleeding in a client with suspected hemorrhage.
Questions
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While ambulation is important for overall health, it is not the priority action to prevent bleeding complications.
B) Incorrect. Prophylactic antibiotics may be prescribed for specific medical conditions but are not the primary intervention to prevent hemorrhage.
C) Correct. Applying pressure dressings to potential bleeding sites is the priority action to prevent or control bleeding. It helps promote hemostasis and reduces the risk of excessive bleeding.
D) Incorrect. Monitoring blood glucose levels is important for clients with diabetes but is not directly related to preventing hemorrhage.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While monitoring the client's pain level is important, it is not the priority when managing postpartum hemorrhage.
B) Incorrect. While breastfeeding can help stimulate uterine contractions, it is not the priority when actively managing postpartum hemorrhage.
C) Correct. Assessing the client's uterine contractions is the priority when managing postpartum hemorrhage. Weak or ineffective contractions can contribute to excessive bleeding after childbirth.
D) Incorrect. While educating the client about contraceptive methods is essential for family planning, it is not the immediate priority when managing postpartum hemorrhage.
Explanation
A) Correct. Increasing consumption of vitamin C-rich foods can enhance iron absorption, which is essential for replenishing iron stores in clients at risk of anemia due to hemorrhage.
B) Incorrect. Red meat and poultry products are good sources of heme iron, which is highly absorbable and beneficial for individuals at risk of anemia.
C) Incorrect. Leafy green vegetables are excellent sources of non-heme iron, which is also essential for iron intake in the diet.
D) Incorrect. Dairy products do not significantly impact iron intake and can be included in the diet unless the client has specific dietary restrictions.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While resuming normal activities is important, the client should also be cautious and monitor for any complications after a blood transfusion.
B) Correct. Monitoring for signs of infection at the transfusion site is crucial to identify any potential complications such as infection or infiltration.
C) Incorrect. Consuming citrus fruits and juices is not contraindicated after a blood transfusion and does not directly impact post-transfusion care.
D) Incorrect. Dark-colored stools are not an expected outcome after a blood transfusion. It is important for the client to be aware of any unusual changes in stool color or other potential side effects.
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Avoiding contact sports is a relevant safety measure for some individuals with bleeding disorders, but it is not the priority in preventing cuts and bleeding at home.
B) Incorrect. While keeping the home environment cool may be helpful for some individuals with certain bleeding disorders, it is not the primary safety measure.
C) Correct. Using electric razors for shaving can prevent cuts and reduce the risk of bleeding in clients with bleeding disorders.
D) Incorrect. Taking aspirin daily is not recommended for clients with bleeding disorders as it can increase the risk of bleeding due to its antiplatelet effects.
Explanation
A) Correct. Avoiding herbal supplements is important as some herbs can interact with anticoagulant medications and affect their effectiveness.
B) Correct. Notifying the healthcare provider about unusual
bruising is essential, as it may indicate potential bleeding complications associated with anticoagulant therapy.
C) Incorrect. Taking aspirin while on anticoagulant therapy can increase the risk of bleeding and is not recommended without medical guidance.
D) Correct. Carrying a medical alert card indicating anticoagulant use is crucial to inform healthcare providers about the client's medication regimen in case of emergency.
Questions
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