Nursing Elites

1. A client with hyperthyroidism is prescribed methimazole. The nurse should instruct the client that the purpose of this medication is to:

• A. Decrease thyroid hormone production
• B. Increase thyroid hormone production
• C. Suppress the immune system
• D. Prevent thyroid storm

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decrease thyroid hormone production. Methimazole works by inhibiting the synthesis of thyroid hormones, specifically by blocking the enzyme responsible for this process. By reducing the production of thyroid hormones, methimazole helps to normalize the elevated levels seen in hyperthyroidism. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B, 'Increase thyroid hormone production,' is inaccurate as methimazole actually decreases thyroid hormone production. Choice C, 'Suppress the immune system,' is unrelated to the mechanism of action of methimazole. Choice D, 'Prevent thyroid storm,' is not the primary purpose of methimazole; while it may help prevent worsening of hyperthyroidism, its main action is to reduce thyroid hormone levels.

2. A client with diabetes mellitus is experiencing symptoms of hypoglycemia. Which of the following is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Administer glucagon
• B. Check the client's blood glucose level
• C. Give the client a snack
• D. Notify the healthcare provider

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to check the client's blood glucose level. This is the priority action to confirm hypoglycemia before implementing further interventions. Administering glucagon (Choice A) may be necessary in severe cases of hypoglycemia, but confirming the low blood glucose level is crucial before administering any treatment. Giving the client a snack (Choice C) can help raise blood sugar levels but should come after confirming the hypoglycemia. Notifying the healthcare provider (Choice D) is important, but the immediate priority is to assess and address the hypoglycemia.

3. A nurse caring for a client with hypocalcemia would expect to note which of the following changes on the electrocardiogram?

• A. Widened T wave
• B. Prominent U wave
• C. Prolonged QT interval
• D. Shortened ST segment

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In hypocalcemia, a decreased level of calcium can lead to a prolonged QT interval on the ECG due to its role in myocardial repolarization. A widened T wave (Choice A) is typically seen in hyperkalemia. A prominent U wave (Choice B) is associated with hypokalemia. A shortened ST segment (Choice D) is not a typical ECG finding in hypocalcemia.

4. A client with type 2 DM is being taught about the importance of foot care. Which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Wear comfortable shoes that allow air circulation.
• B. Walk barefoot whenever possible.
• C. Use a heating pad to warm your feet.
• D. Soak your feet in hot water every night.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) regarding foot care is to wear comfortable shoes that allow air circulation. This recommendation helps prevent foot injuries and infections, which are common concerns for individuals with diabetes. Choice B, walking barefoot, can increase the risk of injuries and wounds due to reduced sensation in the feet often seen in diabetes. Choice C, using a heating pad, can lead to burns or skin damage if the temperature is not carefully monitored, making it an unsafe practice. Choice D, soaking feet in hot water every night, can also be harmful as it can cause burns and dry out the skin, leading to further complications for individuals with diabetes. Therefore, the most appropriate and safe advice is to wear comfortable shoes that promote air circulation to maintain foot health and prevent complications.

5. To be effective, a nurse manager needs both managerial and leadership skills. Interpersonal activities have many concerns that overlap both leaders and managers. However, some interpersonal activities are needed by nurse managers, but are not specific duties of leaders. Which of the following is an interpersonal activity of nurse managers, but not necessarily all nurse leaders?

• A. Coaching
• B. Resource allocation
• C. Planning for the future
• D. Monitoring

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Resource allocation is an interpersonal activity specific to nurse managers because it involves managing the distribution of resources within the healthcare environment, which is not necessarily a duty for all leaders. While coaching, planning for the future, and monitoring are important skills for both leaders and managers, resource allocation is a task that is more specific to the managerial role of nurse managers.

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