Nursing Elites

1. A nurse caring for a group of clients reviews the electrolyte laboratory results and notes a sodium level of 130 mEq/L on one client's laboratory report. The nurse understands that which client is at highest risk for the development of a sodium value at this level?

• A. The client with renal failure
• B. The client who is taking diuretics
• C. The client with hyperaldosteronism
• D. The client who is taking corticosteroids

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Clients taking diuretics are at risk for hyponatremia due to excessive sodium loss. In this scenario, a sodium level of 130 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia, which is commonly associated with diuretic use. Options A, C, and D are not the highest risk factors for developing low sodium levels in this context. Renal failure, hyperaldosteronism, and corticosteroid use are not directly linked to sodium loss as seen with diuretics.

2. What is idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura?

• A. Highly similar to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
• B. Caused by the overproduction of platelets.
• C. A bleeding disorder that is characterized by too few platelets.
• D. Treated with immune system-boosting medications.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is a bleeding disorder characterized by a low number of platelets in the blood. This condition is not highly similar to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), which involves abnormal clotting throughout the body (coagulation), leading to depletion of platelets. Choice B is incorrect because idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is actually characterized by a decrease in platelet count, not an overproduction. While immune system-boosting medications may be used in some cases, the primary treatment for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura focuses on increasing platelet counts or managing symptoms.

3. Select a myth or falsehood relating to pain, pain management, and addiction.

• A. Addiction can be accurately predicted.
• B. Withdrawal, drug tolerance, and physical dependence do not indicate addiction.
• C. Pain medications should be avoided in patients with a substance abuse history.
• D. Addiction is signaled by deception and stockpiling by the client.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because addiction cannot be accurately predicted. Choices B and C are incorrect. Withdrawal, drug tolerance, and physical dependence are not definitive signs of addiction, and pain medications can be used with patients who have a substance abuse history under careful monitoring. Choice D is incorrect because addiction is not solely signaled by deception and stockpiling; it is a complex condition with various behavioral, physical, and psychological aspects.

4. Which individual is most at risk for Osgood-Schlatter disease?

• A. An elderly female who is hospitalized with a hip fracture and on bed rest
• B. A middle-aged male patient who has been exposed to asbestos in the shipping industry
• C. An adolescent who is physically active and the captain of their soccer team
• D. An infant of low birth weight and a gestational age of 28 weeks

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Osgood-Schlatter disease is a condition that commonly affects adolescents who are physically active, especially during growth spurts. It is caused by overuse of the knee, leading to inflammation of the patellar ligament at the tibial tuberosity. The repetitive stress on the growth plate during activities like running and jumping can trigger this condition. Therefore, an adolescent who is physically active and the captain of their soccer team is most at risk for Osgood-Schlatter disease. Choices A, B, and D are not at high risk for this condition as it is primarily seen in active adolescents.

5. When reinforcing teaching and instructing the patient, which basic principle of teaching should you follow?

• A. Sequence the instruction from the least complex to the most complex.
• B. Assume that the patient knows little or nothing about the topic.
• C. Tell the patient to call their significant other so you can instruct them.
• D. Use medically oriented terms so the patient will be able to speak with the doctor.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct principle of teaching to follow when reinforcing teaching and instructing the patient is to sequence the instruction from the least complex to the most complex. This approach facilitates learning by building upon simpler concepts before moving to more advanced ones. Choice B is incorrect because assuming the patient knows little or nothing about the topic may not always be accurate and can be patronizing. Choice C is incorrect as it does not focus on the direct teaching approach to the patient. Choice D is incorrect as using medically oriented terms may confuse the patient rather than facilitate understanding.

Similar Questions