A sweat test is performed on an infant with a suspected diagnosis of cystic fibrosis. The nurse reviews the test results and determines that which of the following is a positive result for cystic fibrosis?
A)Chloride level of 20 mEq/L
B)Chloride level of 30 mEq/L
C)Chloride level of 40 mEq/L
D)Chloride level of 70 mEq/L

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse reviews the test results and determines that a positive result for cystic fibrosis is a chloride level of 70 mEq/L. In a sweat test, sweating is stimulated on the child's forearm with pilocarpine, the sample is collected on absorbent material, and the amounts of sodium and chloride are measured. A sample of at least 50 mg of sweat is required for accurate results. A chloride level higher than 60 mEq/L is considered to be a positive test result. A chloride level of 40 mEq/L suggests cystic fibrosis and requires a repeat test. A chloride level of less than 40 mEq/L indicates no cystic fibrosis.

A Sweat Test Is Performed on an Infant with a Suspected