Nursing Elites

1. A client with deep vein thrombosis has been on heparin continuous infusion for 5 days. The provider prescribes warfarin PO without discontinuing the heparin. The client asks the nurse why both anticoagulants are necessary. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

• A. Warfarin takes several days to work, so the IV heparin will be used until the warfarin reaches a therapeutic level.
• B. I will call the provider to get a prescription for discontinuing the IV heparin today.
• C. Both heparin and warfarin work together to dissolve the clots.
• D. The IV heparin increases the effects of the warfarin and decreases the length of your hospital stay.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because warfarin takes several days to reach a therapeutic level and exert its full anticoagulant effect. During this time, the IV heparin is continued to prevent clotting until the warfarin is effective. Both medications are used together temporarily for this reason. Discontinuing heparin prematurely can increase the risk of clot formation. Therefore, the nurse should explain to the client that the IV heparin will be continued until the warfarin reaches a therapeutic level.

2. A client has a new prescription for Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

• A. Take the medication on an empty stomach.
• B. Maintain a fluid restriction while taking it.
• C. Take it with food.
• D. Stop taking it when manifestations subside.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Take it with food.' Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole can cause gastrointestinal upset, and taking it with food helps reduce the risk of stomach irritation. It should not be taken on an empty stomach. Maintaining good hydration is important to prevent kidney-related side effects, so maintaining a fluid restriction, as in choice B, is not appropriate. Additionally, stopping the medication when manifestations subside, as in choice D, is incorrect as antibiotics should be taken for the full prescribed course to ensure eradication of the infection and to prevent antibiotic resistance.

3. A client is being discharged with a new prescription for Lisinopril. Which of the following instructions should be included by the healthcare provider?

• A. Avoid salt substitutes.
• B. Take this medication at bedtime.
• C. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods.
• D. Take this medication with food.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the client to avoid salt substitutes. Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, can lead to hyperkalemia, so it's essential to avoid salt substitutes that may contain potassium which can further elevate potassium levels. Choice B is incorrect because Lisinopril is typically taken once daily in the morning, not at bedtime. Choice C is incorrect as increasing potassium intake can exacerbate hyperkalemia when taking Lisinopril. Choice D is incorrect as Lisinopril is usually taken on an empty stomach, not with food.

4. A client with Addison's disease is being admitted for a total hip arthroplasty. The client takes hydrocortisone. What is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Administering a supplemental dose of hydrocortisone
• B. Instructing the client about coughing and deep breathing
• C. Collecting additional information from the client about his history of Addison's disease
• D. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority action for a client with Addison's disease undergoing surgery who takes hydrocortisone is to administer a supplemental dose of hydrocortisone. Acute adrenal insufficiency (adrenal crisis) is a significant risk during surgery due to the stress placed on the body. Supplemental doses help prevent acute adrenal insufficiency and ensure the client's safety during the surgical procedure. Instructing the client about coughing and deep breathing is important post-operatively but not the priority before surgery. Collecting additional information about the client's history of Addison's disease is relevant but not the priority action before surgery. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not the priority action in this scenario.

5. What is a common side effect of Albuterol?

• A. Paradoxical Bronchospasm
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Seizures
• D. Vision Loss

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A common side effect of Albuterol is paradoxical bronchospasm, a condition where the airways become more constricted instead of relaxing. This can be a serious adverse reaction to the medication. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are not commonly associated with Albuterol use. Diarrhea and seizures are not typically reported side effects of Albuterol, and vision loss is not a recognized side effect of this medication.

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