Nursing Elites

1. A 55-year-old man presents with fatigue, pruritus, and jaundice. Laboratory tests reveal elevated bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase levels. Imaging shows dilated intrahepatic bile ducts and a normal common bile duct. What is the most likely diagnosis?

• A. Primary biliary cirrhosis
• B. Primary sclerosing cholangitis
• C. Gallstones
• D. Pancreatic cancer

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The constellation of symptoms including fatigue, pruritus, and jaundice, along with elevated bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase levels, and imaging findings of dilated intrahepatic bile ducts and a normal common bile duct, are classical features of primary biliary cirrhosis.

2. A client with heart failure is prescribed digoxin (Lanoxin). Which instruction should the nurse include in the client's teaching plan?

• A. Take your pulse before each dose and hold the medication if your pulse is below 60 beats per minute.
• B. Increase your intake of foods high in potassium.
• C. Take the medication with a high-fiber meal to enhance absorption.
• D. Skip a dose if you feel dizzy or lightheaded.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed digoxin is to take their pulse before each dose and hold the medication if the pulse is below 60 beats per minute. This is crucial to prevent digoxin toxicity, as digoxin can cause adverse effects when the pulse rate is too low. Monitoring the pulse regularly ensures safety and appropriate management of the medication.

3. A patient with hyperthyroidism is prescribed propylthiouracil (PTU). What is the primary purpose of this medication?

• A. Increase thyroid hormone production
• B. Suppress thyroid hormone production
• C. Enhance iodine absorption
• D. Stimulate the thyroid gland

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Propylthiouracil (PTU) is a medication used to treat hyperthyroidism by suppressing the production of thyroid hormones. It works by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, thereby reducing their levels in the body. This helps to alleviate the symptoms of hyperthyroidism and restore thyroid hormone levels to normal range.

4. A client with severe anemia is being treated with a blood transfusion. Which assessment finding indicates a transfusion reaction?

• A. Elevated blood pressure.
• B. Fever and chills.
• C. Increased urine output.
• D. Bradycardia.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Fever and chills are classic signs of a transfusion reaction. These symptoms indicate that the body is having a response to the transfused blood, possibly due to incompatibility or an immune reaction. Elevated blood pressure (choice A) is not a typical sign of a transfusion reaction. Increased urine output (choice C) and bradycardia (choice D) are also not characteristic signs of a transfusion reaction. It is crucial to recognize symptoms of a transfusion reaction promptly to prevent further complications and ensure appropriate management.

5. A client with type 1 diabetes mellitus is experiencing nausea and vomiting. What advice should the nurse give regarding insulin administration?

• A. Skip your insulin dose until you can eat.
• B. Take your insulin as prescribed, but monitor your blood glucose closely.
• C. Reduce your insulin dose by half.
• D. Only take your long-acting insulin.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct advice for a client with type 1 diabetes mellitus experiencing nausea and vomiting is to take insulin as prescribed but monitor blood glucose closely. It is essential to continue insulin therapy even if not eating normally to prevent complications from high blood sugar levels. Skipping insulin doses can lead to dangerous fluctuations in blood glucose levels. Reducing the insulin dose without proper guidance can also result in uncontrolled blood sugar. Taking only long-acting insulin may not provide adequate coverage for mealtime blood sugar elevation. Therefore, the best course of action is to take prescribed insulin doses while closely monitoring blood glucose levels.

Similar Questions