Diagnostic/Laboratory tests Flashcards
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What does a chest x-ray provide?
It provides information regarding the anatomic locations and appearance of the lungs.
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What are the nursing implementations for a pre-procedure chest x-ray?
- Remove all jewelry and other metal objects from the chest area
- Assess client’s ability to inhale and hold breath
- Question women of childbearing age about pregnancy
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What are the nursing implementations for a post-procedure chest x-ray?
- Assist the client to dress
* Advise the client exposure is minimal
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What does a CT scan provide?
A cross sectional visualization of examined tissue. It identifies slight variations in tissue thickness (i.e., lesions).
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What are the nursing implementations of a pre procedure CT scan?
The test may or may not use contrast dye:
Inquire about allergies to shellfish, iodine, seafood)
Advise of flushing and warm sensation when contrast is administered.
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What are the nursing implementations of a post procedure CT scan?
Encourage fluids to excrete contrast. ( contrast can damage the kidneys)
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What does an MRI identify?
Subtle changes in tissue structure.
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What are the nursing implementations of a pre procedure MRI?
Remove jewelry and metals
Asked about previous surgeries (for implantable metal)
Inquire about possible claustrophobia.
Assess ROM
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What is a VQ scan? What is used to perform this scan?
Ventilation & perfusion
Evaluates the blood flow to the lungs (perfusion) and determines patency or abnormalities of the pulmonary airways.
A radioisotope may be injected to affect the blood flow.
Radioactive gas is inhaled.
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What are the nursing implementations of a pre procedure VQ scan?
- Obtain inform consent
- Assess for allergies to dye
- Assess breathing methods
- Remove jewelry from chest area
- Establish an IV access
Advise radioisotope has minimal damage.
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What are the nursing implementations of a post procedure VQ scan?
- Monitor reaction to the radionuclide. (Increased pulse & respirations, Flushing; can be signs of a reaction.)
- Use rubber gloves for 1st 24h when discarding urine. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after gloves are removed.
- Instruct client to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What is a pulmonary angiogram?
An invasive procedure that uses iodine, radiopague or contrast inserted through a catheter in the femoral vein or pulmonary artery.
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What are the nursing implementations of a pre procedure pulmonary angiogram?
- Obtain inform consent.
- Assess for allergies to iodine, seafood, or radiopaque dye.
- Maintain NPO for 8h prior to the procedure.
- Monitor VS.
- Monitor coagulation studies (PT, PTT, INR). If elevated then risk for bleeding is increased.
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What are the nursing implementations of a post procedure pulmonary angiogram?
- Monitor VS
- Monitor peripheral neurovascular status (start distal, check pulses bilaterally, cap. refill, check for warmth)
- Assess insertion site for bleeding
- Monitor for delayed reaction to the dye (increased respirations, pulse, flushing)
Diagnostic/Laboratory tests
What is the normal RBC range in adults?
4.2-6.1