Nursing Elites

1. A client with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine (Synthroid). Which symptom should prompt the nurse to notify the healthcare provider?

• A. Weight gain.
• B. Bradycardia.
• C. Nervousness and tremors.
• D. Fatigue.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Nervousness and tremors.' In a client with hypothyroidism prescribed levothyroxine, the development of nervousness and tremors may indicate hyperthyroidism, which can result from excessive dosing of levothyroxine. Therefore, the nurse should promptly notify the healthcare provider to adjust the medication dosage. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because weight gain, bradycardia, and fatigue are more commonly associated with hypothyroidism itself, indicating that the levothyroxine therapy may not be effective enough, rather than being signs of excessive dosing.

2. The nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for surgery in the morning. The client reports drinking a glass of water at midnight. What should the nurse do?

• A. Notify the anesthesiologist
• B. Document the intake in the medical record
• C. Cancel the surgery
• D. Instruct the client to fast until the surgery

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to notify the anesthesiologist. When a client reports drinking water close to the time of surgery, it is important to inform the anesthesiologist as it can impact the administration of anesthesia. The anesthesiologist needs this information to make decisions regarding anesthesia administration. Documenting the intake in the medical record is important for documentation purposes, but the immediate action needed is to inform the anesthesiologist. Canceling the surgery is not necessary based solely on the intake of water; the anesthesiologist will determine the appropriate course of action. Instructing the client to fast until the surgery may not be appropriate without consulting the anesthesiologist first, as the situation needs to be assessed by the anesthesia team.

3. A client with a diagnosis of osteoporosis is prescribed alendronate (Fosamax). What is the most important instruction the nurse should provide?

• A. Take the medication in the morning on an empty stomach.
• B. Take the medication at bedtime.
• C. Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication.
• D. Take the medication with a full glass of water.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most important instruction the nurse should provide to a client prescribed alendronate (Fosamax) for osteoporosis is to take the medication with a full glass of water. This is crucial to help prevent esophageal irritation. Option A is correct as alendronate should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach. Option C is incorrect because the client should remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication, not lie down. Option B is incorrect and a duplicate of Option A.

4. A client is being treated for dehydration. Which clinical finding would indicate that treatment is effective?

• A. Dry mucous membranes
• B. Increased urine output
• C. Tachycardia
• D. Hypotension

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increased urine output. When a client is being treated for dehydration, increased urine output is a positive indication that the treatment is effective. This signifies that the body is beginning to rehydrate and eliminate excess fluid. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because dry mucous membranes, tachycardia, and hypotension are all associated with dehydration and would not be signs of effective treatment.

5. A client is scheduled for a sigmoidoscopy and expresses anxiety about the procedure. What should the nurse do first?

• A. Offer information about the procedure steps
• B. Administer an anxiolytic before the procedure
• C. Encourage the client to discuss their fears
• D. Reassure the client that the procedure is common and safe

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct first action for the nurse when a client expresses anxiety about a procedure is to encourage the client to discuss their fears. By allowing the client to express their concerns, the nurse can provide personalized support, address specific worries, and offer tailored information. This approach helps to establish trust, reduce anxiety, and promote a therapeutic nurse-client relationship. Offering information about the procedure steps (Choice A) may be helpful but should come after addressing the client's fears. Administering an anxiolytic (Choice B) should not be the first action as it focuses on symptom management rather than addressing the underlying cause of anxiety. Reassuring the client that the procedure is common and safe (Choice D) is important but should follow active listening and addressing the client's fears.

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