Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 65%
Simulated
A child is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of rheumatic fever. The nurse reviews the blood laboratory findings, knowing that which finding will confirm the likelihood of this disorder?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
Children suspected of having rheumatic fever are tested for streptococcal antibodies. The most reliable and best standardized test to confirm the diagnosis is the ASO titer. An elevated level indicates the presence of rheumatic fever. The remaining options are unrelated to diagnosing rheumatic fever. Additionally, an increased leukocyte count indicates the presence of infection but is not specific in confirming a particular diagnosis.