Which is the process by which certain cells engulf and digest microorganisms and cellular debris?

• Erythrocytosis

• Hematocrit

• Phagocytosis

• Hemostasis

Answer explanation

Phagocytosis is the process by which bacteria, cellular debris, and solid particles are destroyed and removed.

The nurse explains that because it is a reliable and predictable indicator of the body’s level of infection or recovery, which is a common diagnostic tool?

• hemoglobin

• hematocrit

• mean cell volume (MCV)

• differential

Answer explanation

A differential white blood cell count is an examination in which the different kinds of WBCs are counted and reported as percentages of the total examined. It is a common diagnostic tool because of its reliability and the predictability of the body’s response to infection or its progress in recovery.

The nurse assessing a differential sees an increase in immature neutrophils (bands) and is aware that this indicates which concern?

• a significant hemorrhage.

• aplastic anemia.

• an infection or stress.

• beginning recovery from an infection.

Answer explanation

An increase in immature neutrophils (bands) is sometimes referred to as “a shift to the left” , and it indicates an infection or stress.

B cells and T cells fit under which classification?

• Erythrocytes

• Basophils

• Lymphocytes

• Monocytes

Answer explanation

B cells and T cells, the major players in the antigen/antibody conflict, are both lymphocytes.

The nurse is reading the results of a white blood cell count differential. Which abnormal reading indicates a severe allergic reaction?

• Increased basophil count

• Increased lymphocyte count

• Increased monocyte count

• Increased neutrophil count

Answer explanation

An increased basophil count may indicate a severe allergic reaction.

The presence of excess bands in the peripheral blood that indicate severe infection is indicated in which manner?

• shift to the left.

• shift to the right.

• bone marrow aspiration.

• thrombocytosis.

Answer explanation

The presence of excess bands in the peripheral blood is called a shift to the left (i.e., a shift toward immature cells) and indicates severe infection.

A patient has been diagnosed with pernicious anemia. When reinforcing instructions, the nurse explains this disorder results from which process?

• Poor nutritional intake of iron

• Lack of the intrinsic factor

• Blood loss due to hemorrhage

• Excess production of red blood cells

Answer explanation

With pernicious anemia, the body lacks the intrinsic factor. Iron deficiency anemia is caused by poor nutritional iron intake. Blood loss associated anemia is due to hemorrhage. Pernicious anemia is not associated with excess production of red blood cells.

Erythropoiesis is the term referring to which process?

• Destruction of older red blood cells

• Lack of folic acid to create new red blood cells

• Releasing white blood cells in response to infection

• Production of new red blood cells in the bone marrow

Answer explanation

Erythropoiesis is the term used to describe the production of new red blood cells in the bone marrow.

Which does the elevation in the eosinophil count to 10% indicate?

• Anemia

• Allergy

• Infection

• Hypoxia

Answer explanation

Normal values of eosinophils are 1% to 4%. An elevation to 10% would indicate the presence of an allergic reaction.

Which would a nurse reinforce in a teaching plan for a home health patient with a hemoglobin of 8.4 mg?

• Exercising for periods of 30 minutes daily

• Limiting fluid intake

• Alternating activity with rest periods

• Avoiding the use of oxygen

Answer explanation

Persons with severe anemia need to conserve their energy. Observing a rest period after a period of activity will reduce hypoxia. Oxygen may be used as necessary.