Pre-Test 1 and 2: Introduction to Special Questions Based on Official NCLEX-RN[®]
57. A toddler, who had a blood lead level (BLL) test result of <10 mcg/dL 1 year ago, presents in the pediatrician's office with a level of 48 mcg/dL. The nurse should anticipate the need for a/an:
Test-Taking Tip
Think: Lead poisoning is from ingestion, ingestion is related to the GI system, the GI system fills the abdomen; therefore, select an abdominal x-ray option.
Content Area: Child Health, Poisoning; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Reduction of Risk Potential/Diagnostic Tests
Pre-Test 1 and 2: Introduction to Special Questions Based on Official NCLEX-RN[®]
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Answer 1 is incorrect because an EEG (electroencephalogram) is a study of the electric activity of the brain and would not detect lead levels in the toddler's body. Answer 2 is incorrect because a CBC (complete blood count) is a general study of the hematological system, and would not detect lead levels in the toddler's body. Answer 3 is correct because a toddler with a sharp rise in blood lead level (BLL) should have an abdominal x-ray to determine the presence of lead chips, which would be a result of repeated ingestion of leadbased paint chips. If lead chips are discovered in the stomach or small intestine, the bowel is decontaminated using a cathartic before beginning chelation therapy. Answer 4 is incorrect because a chest x-ray is a general study of the respiratory system, and would not detect lead levels in the toddler's body or reveal the presence of lead chips.
