Prepare for the NCLEX-RN® by diving into nephrotic syndrome insights: Understanding key laboratory results. Explore the nurse’s role in identifying associated indicators. Get informed and master renal conditions for your nursing journey.
The nurse reviews the laboratory results of a client who is suspected of having nephrotic syndrome. Which result(s) should the nurse associate with the condition?
| Laboratory Test ResultsHemoglobin- 16.5 g/dLHematocrit- 48%Serum albumin – 1.8 g/dLProthrombin time (PT)- 16 secondsActivated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)- 48 secondsInternational normalized ratio (INR)- 1.9 |
The correct answer to today’s NCLEX-RN® Question is…
| Laboratory Test ResultsHemoglobin- 16.5 g/dLHematocrit- 48%Serum albumin – 1.8 g/dLProthrombin time (PT)- 16 secondsActivated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)- 48 secondsInternational normalized ratio (INR)- 1.9 |
Major Takeaway
The diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome starts with the client’s history and physical assessment. A 24-hour urine collection shows severe proteinuria, with more than 3.5 g/dL protein in a 24-hour urine sample. Clients also have serum albumin levels below 3 g/dL as well as hyperlipidemia. There are also abnormalities in the coagulation panel, such as an increased prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and international normalized ratio (INR). Creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) are also usually increased, and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is decreased. A kidney biopsy can be done to establish the cause of nephrotic syndrome.
| Laboratory Test | Normal Range |
| Hemoglobin | 14.0-18.0 g/dL |
| Hematocrit | 40-54% |
| Serum albumin | 3.5-5.0 g/dL |
| Prothrombin time (PT) | 9-12 seconds |
| Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) | 25-40 seconds |
| International normalized ratio (INR) | 0.9-1.1 |
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