Nursing Elites

1. A female patient is concerned about the side effects of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). What common side effect should the nurse explain?

• A. Weight gain
• B. Hair loss
• C. Increased libido
• D. Decreased energy levels

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Weight gain. Weight gain is a common side effect of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) due to hormonal changes. Patients should be informed about this possibility as part of their treatment plan. Hair loss (Choice B) is not a common side effect of HRT. Increased libido (Choice C) and decreased energy levels (Choice D) are not typically associated with HRT side effects. Therefore, the nurse should focus on discussing weight gain with the patient.

2. Which of the following is the most appropriate diagnostic method for identifying lung cancer in its early stages?

• A. CT scan
• B. MRI
• C. X-ray
• D. Biopsy

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A biopsy is the most appropriate method for diagnosing lung cancer in its early stages. A biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample from the lung for examination under a microscope. This method provides a definitive diagnosis by identifying cancerous cells. CT scans, MRIs, and X-rays can help detect abnormalities in the lungs, but a biopsy is necessary to confirm the presence of lung cancer. CT scans offer detailed images of the lung's structure, MRIs use magnetic fields for imaging soft tissues, and X-rays provide a basic view of the lungs, but none of these imaging techniques can definitively confirm the presence of cancer without a biopsy.

3. Which of the following is a characteristic of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)?

• A. Simultaneous stroke and heart attack
• B. Simultaneous clotting and bleeding
• C. Simultaneous clotting and insulin release
• D. Simultaneous bleeding and vomiting

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is characterized by simultaneous clotting and bleeding throughout the body. This imbalance in the body's clotting system leads to the formation of blood clots in small blood vessels, which can consume clotting factors and platelets, ultimately leading to excessive bleeding. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not describe the characteristic feature of DIC, which involves both clotting and bleeding.

4. When does pain in the lower extremities due to peripheral artery disease usually worsen?

• A. with rest because blood flow decreases.
• B. with elevation of the extremity because blood is diverted away.
• C. when the leg is in a dependent position because blood pools.
• D. when the leg is touched or massaged because cytokines are released.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Pain in the lower extremities due to peripheral artery disease usually worsens with elevation of the extremity because blood is diverted away from the affected area, leading to decreased perfusion and exacerbation of symptoms. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because resting, dependent position, and touch/massage do not typically worsen the pain associated with peripheral artery disease.

5. A patient is taking a statin for hyperlipidemia. What important instruction should the nurse provide to the patient?

• A. Take the medication at night to avoid muscle pain.
• B. Take the medication in the morning to ensure it works throughout the day.
• C. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medication.
• D. Take the medication with a high-fat meal to increase absorption.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the patient to take the medication at night to avoid muscle pain. Statins are known to potentially cause muscle pain or weakness; taking the medication at night can help reduce the incidence of these side effects. Option B is incorrect because the timing of statin administration is not related to its effectiveness throughout the day. Option C is a general precaution when taking medications but not the most important instruction specific to statins. Option D is incorrect as taking the medication with a high-fat meal can actually decrease its absorption.

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