QuestionAugust 10, 2025

Which lab value order would the nurse anticipate for a patient on diuretic therapy who reports a swollen, red left ankle joint with no history of injury and that the joint feels "tight"? Uric acid Potassium Sodium Lactic acid

Which lab value order would the nurse anticipate for a patient on diuretic therapy who reports a swollen, red left ankle joint with no history of injury and that the joint feels "tight"? Uric acid Potassium Sodium Lactic acid
Which lab value order would the nurse anticipate for a patient on diuretic therapy who reports a
swollen, red left ankle joint with no history of injury and that the joint feels "tight"?
Uric acid
Potassium
Sodium
Lactic acid

Solution
4.4(243 votes)

Answer

Uric acid Explanation 1. Identify the symptoms and context The patient is on diuretic therapy and reports a swollen, red ankle joint with no history of injury. These symptoms suggest possible gout, which is associated with elevated uric acid levels. 2. Determine relevant lab value Diuretics can increase uric acid levels in the blood, potentially leading to gout. Therefore, the nurse would anticipate an order for checking uric acid levels to assess for hyperuricemia. 3. Evaluate other lab values While potassium and sodium levels are important for patients on diuretics due to potential electrolyte imbalances, they are not directly related to the symptoms described. Lactic acid is not relevant in this context.

Explanation

1. Identify the symptoms and context<br /> The patient is on diuretic therapy and reports a swollen, red ankle joint with no history of injury. These symptoms suggest possible gout, which is associated with elevated uric acid levels.<br />2. Determine relevant lab value<br /> Diuretics can increase uric acid levels in the blood, potentially leading to gout. Therefore, the nurse would anticipate an order for checking uric acid levels to assess for hyperuricemia.<br />3. Evaluate other lab values<br /> While potassium and sodium levels are important for patients on diuretics due to potential electrolyte imbalances, they are not directly related to the symptoms described. Lactic acid is not relevant in this context.
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