Nursing Elites

1. A client is receiving dexamethasone (Decadron). What symptoms should the nurse recognize as Cushingoid side effects?

• A. Moon face, slow wound healing, muscle wasting, sodium and water retention
• B. Tachycardia, hypertension, weight loss, heat intolerance, nervousness, restlessness, tremor
• C. Bradycardia, weight gain, cold intolerance, myxedema facies and periorbital edema
• D. Hyperpigmentation, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, dehydration, hypotension

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Cushingoid side effects are characteristic of excess corticosteroid use, such as dexamethasone. These include moon face (rounding of the face), slow wound healing, muscle wasting, and sodium and water retention. Options B, C, and D describe symptoms that are not typically associated with Cushingoid side effects. Tachycardia, hypertension, weight loss, heat intolerance, nervousness, restlessness, tremor (Option B) are not typical of Cushingoid effects, while bradycardia, weight gain, cold intolerance, myxedema facies, and periorbital edema (Option C) are more indicative of hypothyroidism. Hyperpigmentation, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, dehydration, and hypotension (Option D) are not classical features of Cushingoid side effects.

2. The client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is being educated about dietary modifications. Which dietary restriction should the nurse emphasize the most?

• A. Limit intake of high-fiber foods
• B. Restrict protein intake
• C. Avoid dairy products
• D. Increase fluid intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most crucial dietary restriction to emphasize for a client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is to restrict protein intake. By restricting protein intake, the workload on the kidneys is reduced, which helps slow the progression of CKD. While high-fiber foods are generally beneficial, they may need to be limited in some individuals with CKD due to potassium concerns, making choice A less critical. Avoiding dairy products may be necessary in some cases to control phosphorus levels, but it is not as vital as restricting protein intake. Increasing fluid intake is essential for kidney health, but it is not the most critical dietary modification for clients with CKD.

3. The nurse is providing care for a client with a draining postoperative wound infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Which is the most important action for the nurse to take?

• A. Encourage increased oral fluids.
• B. Provide high-protein snacks.
• C. Change the wound dressing.
• D. Administer prescribed antibiotics.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Administering prescribed antibiotics is crucial in treating MRSA infections. MRSA is a type of bacteria that is resistant to many antibiotics, including methicillin. Therefore, prompt administration of the appropriate antibiotics is essential to target the MRSA infection effectively. Encouraging increased oral fluids (Choice A) and providing high-protein snacks (Choice B) may be beneficial for overall recovery but are not the most important actions in treating an MRSA infection. Changing the wound dressing (Choice C) is important for wound care but does not directly address the infection caused by MRSA.

4. A client with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is taking lithium. What is the most important information the nurse should provide?

• A. Take the medication on an empty stomach
• B. Monitor sodium intake
• C. Report any signs of weight gain
• D. Avoid excessive caffeine intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Sodium levels can affect lithium levels in the body, so it is crucial to monitor sodium intake to prevent toxicity or subtherapeutic levels. Lithium is typically taken on an empty stomach to enhance absorption, making choice A more accurate than the original 'Take the medication with food.' Reporting weight gain, as mentioned in choice C, is important for monitoring side effects but is not as critical as ensuring proper lithium levels through sodium intake monitoring. Choice D, avoiding excessive caffeine intake, is not a priority concern directly related to lithium therapy.

5. When observing a newly admitted elderly client with dementia resisting care, what approach should the nurse take to facilitate cooperation?

• A. Use short, simple sentences and maintain a calm demeanor
• B. Involve family members to provide reassurance
• C. Offer choices to empower the client
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When dealing with a newly admitted elderly client with dementia who is resistant to care, it is crucial to employ multiple strategies to facilitate cooperation. Using short, simple sentences and maintaining a calm demeanor can help the client better understand instructions and reduce agitation. Involving family members can provide comfort and reassurance to the client, potentially decreasing resistance. Offering choices allows the client to feel a sense of control and autonomy in their care, which can increase cooperation and reduce challenging behaviors. Therefore, a combination of clear communication, family involvement, and providing choices is essential to effectively engage and care for a client with dementia. Choices A, B, and C all play crucial roles in addressing the needs of the client, making 'All of the above' the correct answer.

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