Nursing Elites

1. A client with chronic heart failure has been prescribed furosemide (Lasix). Which instruction should the nurse reinforce to the client regarding this medication?

• A. Take the medication with food.
• B. Limit foods high in potassium while taking this medication.
• C. Report any muscle cramps or weakness to your healthcare provider.
• D. Expect to urinate more frequently while on this medication.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to reinforce to the client regarding furosemide (Lasix) is to report any muscle cramps or weakness to the healthcare provider. Muscle cramps or weakness may indicate hypokalemia, a potential side effect of furosemide. Monitoring and reporting these symptoms promptly can help in preventing complications related to electrolyte imbalances. Choice A is incorrect because furosemide should be taken on an empty stomach. Choice B is not directly related to furosemide use; in fact, foods high in potassium may be beneficial for clients taking furosemide to prevent hypokalemia. Choice D is a common expected side effect of furosemide due to its diuretic action but is not as crucial to report as potential signs of electrolyte imbalances.

2. A client has a new prescription for allopurinol. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take the medication with food.
• B. Increase your fluid intake.
• C. Avoid consuming dairy products.
• D. Take the medication in the morning.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Increasing fluid intake is essential when taking allopurinol to prevent the formation of kidney stones. Allopurinol can increase the levels of uric acid in the body, which can lead to kidney stone formation. By increasing fluid intake, the client can help flush out excess uric acid and prevent the development of kidney stones. It is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain adequate hydration and reduce the risk of kidney stone formation. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Taking allopurinol with food or in the morning does not specifically relate to preventing kidney stone formation. Avoiding dairy products is not a standard recommendation when taking allopurinol.

3. A client in the emergency department is bleeding profusely from a gunshot wound to the abdomen. In what position should the nurse immediately place the client to promote maintenance of the client's blood pressure above a systolic pressure of 90 mm Hg?

• A. Place the client in a 45-degree Trendelenburg position to promote cerebral blood flow.
• B. Turn the client prone to apply pressure on the abdominal wound to help staunch the bleeding.
• C. Maintain the client in a supine position to reduce diaphragmatic pressure and visualize the wound.
• D. Put the client on the right side to apply pressure to the liver and spleen to stop hemorrhaging.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a client with profuse bleeding from a gunshot wound to the abdomen, maintaining the client in a supine position is essential to manage blood pressure. This position helps in reducing diaphragmatic pressure and allows for proper visualization of the wound, aiding in prompt assessment and intervention to control the bleeding and stabilize the client's condition. Placing the client in a 45-degree Trendelenburg position (Choice A) could worsen the bleeding by increasing intrathoracic pressure and venous return, potentially leading to further hemorrhage. Turning the client prone (Choice B) may not be feasible in this situation and can delay essential interventions. Placing the client on the right side (Choice D) does not address the immediate need to manage the bleeding and stabilize the client's condition.

4. The client with Raynaud's phenomenon is being taught by the nurse about preventing episodes. Which instruction should the nurse reinforce?

• A. Wear gloves in cold weather.
• B. Avoid caffeine and chocolate.
• C. Increase intake of vitamin C.
• D. Use a heating pad for warmth.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Wear gloves in cold weather.' Wearing gloves in cold weather is essential for preventing vasoconstriction and subsequent episodes of Raynaud's phenomenon. Cold temperatures can trigger vasospasms in individuals with Raynaud's, and wearing gloves helps maintain warmth and prevent the constriction of blood vessels in the extremities, reducing the likelihood of an episode. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while avoiding caffeine and chocolate, increasing vitamin C intake, and using a heating pad for warmth can be beneficial for overall health, they are not specifically targeted at preventing Raynaud's phenomenon episodes triggered by cold weather.

5. The LPN/LVN is assisting in the care of a client with chronic heart failure who is receiving furosemide (Lasix). Which instruction should the nurse reinforce with the client?

• A. Limit your fluid intake to avoid fluid overload.
• B. Increase your potassium intake by eating bananas and oranges.
• C. Weigh yourself once a week to monitor for fluid retention.
• D. Take the medication at night to avoid frequent urination during the day.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to reinforce with the client is to increase potassium intake by eating bananas and oranges. Furosemide can lead to potassium loss, potentially causing hypokalemia. By increasing potassium intake through diet, the client can help prevent this electrolyte imbalance and maintain overall health. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Limiting fluid intake is not the appropriate instruction, as furosemide is a diuretic that already helps in fluid management. Weighing once a week is not as crucial as monitoring potassium levels, and taking the medication at night does not impact potassium levels.

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