Nursing Elites

1. A client with hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine. What assessment finding suggests the medication dosage is too high?

• A. Increased sensitivity to cold.
• B. Increased heart rate and palpitations.
• C. Improved energy levels.
• D. Improved tolerance to heat.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increased heart rate and palpitations. When a client with hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine, these symptoms may indicate that the dosage is too high, causing the client to develop hyperthyroidism. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Increased sensitivity to cold is a symptom of hypothyroidism, improved energy levels are an expected outcome of levothyroxine therapy for hypothyroidism, and improved tolerance to heat is not a common sign of levothyroxine overdose.

2. The nurse assesses a 72-year-old client who was admitted for right-sided congestive heart failure. Which of the following would the nurse anticipate finding?

• A. Decreased urinary output
• B. Jugular vein distention
• C. Pleural effusion
• D. Bibasilar crackles

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Correct! In right-sided congestive heart failure, jugular vein distention is a common finding due to the backup of blood in the systemic circulation. This results in increased venous pressure, leading to jugular vein distention. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because decreased urinary output, pleural effusion, and bibasilar crackles are more commonly associated with other conditions such as kidney dysfunction, lung issues, and pulmonary edema.

3. A client with cirrhosis and ascites asks about fluid restriction. What is the nurse’s best response?

• A. Increase the client's fluid intake gradually.
• B. Restrict oral fluids to 1500 ml per day.
• C. Explain the importance of following a low-sodium diet.
• D. Increase dietary protein to reduce fluid retention.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Restrict oral fluids to 1500 ml per day.' In clients with cirrhosis and ascites, fluid restriction is essential to prevent fluid overload, which can worsen symptoms of liver failure. Option A is incorrect because increasing fluid intake would exacerbate the issue of fluid overload. Option C, while important, is not the best initial response to the client's question about fluid restriction. Option D is incorrect as increasing dietary protein does not directly address fluid restriction in clients with cirrhosis and ascites.

4. A client with hypertension is prescribed hydrochlorothiazide. What teaching should the nurse provide?

• A. Take the medication in the morning to avoid frequent urination at night.
• B. Increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
• C. Avoid potassium-rich foods, such as bananas and oranges.
• D. Monitor the client’s potassium levels weekly.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct teaching for a client prescribed hydrochlorothiazide is to increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that can lead to fluid loss and electrolyte imbalances, so adequate fluid intake is crucial. Choice A is incorrect because hydrochlorothiazide is typically taken in the morning to avoid nighttime urination. Choice C is incorrect as potassium-rich foods should not be avoided but monitored, as hydrochlorothiazide can cause potassium loss. Choice D is incorrect as potassium levels should be monitored regularly, but not necessarily weekly, unless indicated by the healthcare provider.

5. A client recovering from a stroke is demonstrating slurred speech. What action should the nurse take?

• A. Consult the healthcare provider to order speech therapy.
• B. Administer a dose of aspirin to prevent further neurological damage.
• C. Encourage the client to use communication aids, such as writing.
• D. Encourage the client to eat soft foods to avoid choking.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for a client recovering from a stroke demonstrating slurred speech is to encourage the client to use communication aids, such as writing. This intervention can help the client effectively communicate while working on regaining speech abilities. Consulting the healthcare provider to order speech therapy (choice A) is a valid option, but immediate encouragement of using communication aids is beneficial. Administering aspirin (choice B) without healthcare provider orders is not recommended. Encouraging the client to eat soft foods (choice D) is important for preventing aspiration but doesn't directly address the communication issue.

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