Nursing Elites

1. A client with hypokalemia is commonly expected to present with which of the following findings?

• A. Muscle weakness
• B. Nausea
• C. Tingling sensation
• D. Increased thirst

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Muscle weakness. Hypokalemia is characterized by low potassium levels in the blood, which can lead to muscle weakness. This occurs because potassium is essential for proper muscle function, and a deficiency can impair muscle strength. Nausea (choice B) is not a typical finding associated with hypokalemia. Tingling sensation (choice C) is more commonly linked to issues like nerve damage or poor blood circulation, rather than hypokalemia. Increased thirst (choice D) is not a direct symptom of hypokalemia; it is more commonly seen in conditions like diabetes or dehydration.

2. A nurse is assessing a client who is prescribed spironolactone. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor for this client?

• A. Total bilirubin.
• B. Urine ketones.
• C. Serum potassium.
• D. Platelet count.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Serum potassium. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, meaning it helps the body retain potassium. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the client's serum potassium levels to prevent hyperkalemia, which can be a potential side effect of spironolactone. Monitoring total bilirubin levels (A) is not specifically required for clients taking spironolactone. Urine ketones (B) are not directly influenced by spironolactone use. Platelet count (D) is not typically monitored in clients taking spironolactone.

3. What is the correct procedure for taking a telephone order from a provider?

• A. State patient name, drug, dose, route, frequency, and read back the order
• B. State the medication and ask for a witness to listen to the order
• C. Write down the order and verify with the provider within 12 hours
• D. Have the provider verify the order during the next in-person visit

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct procedure for taking a telephone order from a provider is to state the patient's name, drug, dose, route, frequency, and then read back the order to ensure accuracy. This process helps in preventing errors and ensures that all relevant information is correctly documented. Choice B is incorrect because having a witness listen to the order is not a standard practice and may not guarantee accuracy. Choice C is incorrect as verifying the order within 12 hours may lead to delays in patient care. Choice D is incorrect because waiting for the provider to verify the order during the next in-person visit could result in a significant delay in administering necessary medication.

4. A nurse is caring for a client who has a terminal illness and is approaching death. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of impending death?

• A. Hypertension.
• B. Tachycardia.
• C. Cold extremities.
• D. Diaphoresis.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Cold extremities are a critical sign of impending death as they indicate decreased circulation, leading to poor perfusion to the extremities. This phenomenon occurs as the body redirects blood flow to vital organs, preparing for the end of life. Hypertension and tachycardia are less likely to be seen in the terminal phase and are usually associated with other conditions like shock or sepsis. Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, may occur in various situations but is not a specific indicator of impending death in this context.

5. What are the signs and symptoms of fluid overload, and how should a nurse manage this condition?

• A. Edema, weight gain, shortness of breath
• B. Fever, cough, chest pain
• C. Increased heart rate, low blood pressure
• D. Increased blood pressure, jugular venous distention

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Fluid overload manifests as edema, weight gain, and shortness of breath. These symptoms occur due to an excess of fluid in the body. Managing fluid overload involves interventions such as monitoring fluid intake and output, adjusting diuretic therapy, restricting fluid intake, and collaborating with healthcare providers to address the underlying cause. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not represent typical signs of fluid overload. Fever, cough, chest pain, increased heart rate, low blood pressure, increased blood pressure, and jugular venous distention are not primary indicators of fluid overload.

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