Question

A client, 38 weeks' gestation, has been diagnosed with HELLP syndrome. Which of the following changes is consistent with this diagnosis?

1) Hematocrit dropped to 28
2) Platelets increased to 300,000 cells/mm?
3) Red blood cells increased to 5.1 million cells/mm?
4) Sodium dropped to 132 mEg/dL

Answer 1

In the diagnosis of HELLP syndrome, a hematocrit drop to 28 is consistent due to the hemolysis that occurs. Platelets would be low, not elevated, and red blood cells would not be increased in this condition. Hence, option 1 is the correct choice in this context.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client at 38 weeks' gestation diagnosed with HELLP syndrome is expected to have certain characteristic changes in their bloodwork. HELLP syndrome involves Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and a Low Platelet count. Therefore, the changes consistent with this diagnosis would typically include a reduced hematocrit, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets, and abnormal red blood cell morphology, not an increase in red blood cells or platelets. Given the options presented:

• Hematocrit dropped to 28 is consistent with hemolysis.
• Platelets increased to 300,000 cells/mm³ is not consistent with HELLP syndrome as it usually leads to a low platelet count.
• Red blood cells increased to 5.1 million cells/mm³ is not consistent with the hemolysis seen in HELLP syndrome.
• Sodium dropped to 132 mEq/L is not specifically related to HELLP syndrome.

Therefore, option 1, hematocrit dropped to 28, is consistent with a diagnosis of HELLP syndrome.