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. A new mother is at the clinic with her 4-week-old for a well-baby check-up. The nurse should tell the mother to anticipate that the infant will demonstrate which milestone by 2 months of age?

• A. Turns from side to back and returns
• B. Consistently returns smiles to mother
• C. Finds hands and plays with fingers
• D. Holds head up and supports weight with arms

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because social smiling is a developmental milestone typically expected around 2 months of age. At this stage, infants start to engage more with their caregivers and show positive emotional responses. The other choices are incorrect. Choice A describes a motor skill that usually emerges later. Choice C involves more coordination and exploration, which is not typically seen by 2 months. Choice D relates to head control and arm strength, which also develop progressively but may not be fully achieved by 2 months.

3. A client with diabetes mellitus is admitted with hyperglycemia. What is the priority nursing action?

• A. Administer insulin as prescribed
• B. Encourage fluid intake
• C. Monitor blood glucose levels frequently
• D. Assess for signs of hypoglycemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering insulin is the priority nursing action for a client admitted with hyperglycemia due to diabetes mellitus. Insulin helps lower blood glucose levels and prevent further complications associated with hyperglycemia. Encouraging fluid intake is important but not the priority as insulin administration takes precedence to address the immediate hyperglycemic state. Monitoring blood glucose levels frequently is essential but comes after administering insulin to ensure the treatment's effectiveness. Assessing for signs of hypoglycemia is incorrect as the client is admitted with hyperglycemia, which requires raising blood glucose levels, not lowering them further.

4. The nurse is assessing a client with chronic liver disease. Which lab value is most concerning?

• A. Elevated AST and ALT levels
• B. Decreased albumin level
• C. Elevated bilirubin level
• D. Prolonged PT/INR

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a client with chronic liver disease, a prolonged PT/INR is the most concerning lab value. This finding indicates impaired liver function affecting the synthesis of clotting factors, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. Elevated AST and ALT levels (Choice A) indicate liver cell damage but do not directly correlate with the risk of bleeding. A decreased albumin level (Choice B) is common in liver disease but is not the most concerning in terms of bleeding risk. Elevated bilirubin levels (Choice C) are seen in liver disease but do not directly reflect the risk of bleeding as PT/INR values do.

5. A client with a chronic illness expresses frustration over their condition. What is the nurse's best response to support the client?

• A. Encourage joining a support group for emotional support
• B. Discuss the possibility of a cure in the future
• C. Suggest focusing on positive aspects of their life
• D. Validate their feelings and listen to their concerns

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The best response for the nurse to support a client expressing frustration over their chronic illness is to validate their feelings and listen to their concerns (Option D). This approach helps acknowledge the client's emotions, demonstrates empathy, and establishes a therapeutic relationship. By validating the client's feelings and actively listening to their concerns, the nurse offers a supportive environment for the client to express their frustrations. Choices A, B, and C are not the best responses in this situation. While joining a support group, discussing a cure, or focusing on positive aspects can be beneficial interventions, the immediate priority is to validate the client's feelings and provide a space for them to express their frustrations.

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