Nursing Elites

1. A client comes into the community health center upset and crying stating, “I will die of cancer now that I have this disease.” And then the client hands the nurse a paper with one word written on it: 'Pheochromocytoma.' Which response should the nurse state initially?

• A. 'Pheochromocytomas usually aren't cancerous (malignant). But they may be associated with cancerous tumors in other endocrine glands such as the thyroid (medullary carcinoma of the thyroid).'
• B. 'This problem is diagnosed by blood and urine tests that reveal elevated levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline.'
• C. 'Computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to detect an adrenal tumor.'
• D. 'You probably have had episodes of sweating, heart pounding, and headaches.'

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct initial response for the nurse to provide in this situation is to offer reassurance. Stating that 'Pheochromocytomas usually aren't cancerous (malignant)' helps to alleviate the client's anxiety and fear of having cancer. This response also establishes a foundation for further discussion about the condition, allowing the nurse to address the client's concerns and provide accurate information. Choice B is incorrect as it focuses solely on the diagnostic tests for pheochromocytoma but does not address the client's emotional distress. Choice C is incorrect as it discusses imaging modalities without directly addressing the client's concerns. Choice D is also incorrect as it assumes symptoms without first addressing the client's emotional state and fear of cancer.

2. A client with chronic renal failure is receiving peritoneal dialysis. The nurse should assess the client for which of the following complications?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. Hypokalemia
• D. Hypernatremia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hyperglycemia. In peritoneal dialysis, hyperglycemia can occur due to the glucose content of the dialysate solution. This high glucose concentration can lead to increased blood sugar levels in the client. Option A, Hypertension, is a common complication in chronic renal failure but is not directly related to peritoneal dialysis. Option C, Hypokalemia, is more commonly associated with loop diuretics or inadequate potassium intake. Option D, Hypernatremia, is more often seen in conditions of excessive sodium intake or water loss, rather than in peritoneal dialysis.

3. A 4-month-old child taking digoxin (Lanoxin) has a blood pressure of 92/78; resting pulse of 78; respirations 28, and a potassium level of 4.8 mEq/L. The client is irritable and has vomited twice since the morning dose of digoxin. Which finding is most indicative of digoxin toxicity?

• A. Bradycardia
• B. Lethargy
• C. Irritability
• D. Vomiting

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate) is a key sign of digoxin toxicity. In this scenario, the child's symptoms of irritability, vomiting, along with the resting pulse of 78 despite being on digoxin, suggest an impending bradycardia due to digoxin toxicity. Lethargy can also be a sign, but in this case, the child is irritable rather than lethargic. Vomiting, though a symptom, is not as specific to digoxin toxicity as bradycardia. Irritability, while present, is not the most indicative finding of digoxin toxicity compared to bradycardia.

4. Which ethnic group has the highest risk for diabetes?

• A. African Americans
• B. Hispanic Americans
• C. Asian Americans
• D. Native Americans

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Native Americans have the highest risk for diabetes compared to other ethnic groups. This is due to genetic predisposition, lifestyle factors, and limited access to healthcare. African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Asian Americans also have an increased risk of developing diabetes, but statistically, Native Americans have the highest prevalence of the disease. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect.

5. What title should be given to this occupational health nurse job description?

• A. manager
• B. case manager
• C. health educator
• D. nurse consultant

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct title for this occupational health nurse job description is 'nurse consultant.' A nurse consultant is a registered professional nurse with expertise in occupational and environmental health nursing, effective communication skills, and good administrative and consultative abilities. Choice A, 'manager,' is incorrect as the job description does not primarily focus on managerial duties. Choice B, 'case manager,' is incorrect as it does not fully cover the scope of the described role. Choice C, 'health educator,' is incorrect as it does not encompass the administrative and consultative skills mentioned in the job description.

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