Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare provider is planning care for a child with hyperkalemia. Which manifestation associated with the documented hyperkalemia requires immediate intervention by the healthcare provider?

• A. Hyperthermia
• B. Respiratory distress
• C. Seizures
• D. Cardiac arrhythmias

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In hyperkalemia, cardiac arrhythmias are the most critical and life-threatening manifestation that requires immediate intervention. Hyperkalemia can lead to dangerous heart rhythm disturbances, potentially resulting in cardiac arrest. Prompt treatment is essential to stabilize the heart rhythm and prevent life-threatening complications. Hyperthermia, respiratory distress, and seizures are not typically associated with hyperkalemia and should be addressed, but cardiac arrhythmias pose the most urgent risk to the patient's life.

2. During a vaso-occlusive crisis in sickle cell anemia, what action is crucial for a nurse to take?

• A. Administer meperidine for pain.
• B. Apply cold compresses to the child's joints.
• C. Limit the child's fluid intake.
• D. Maintain bed rest for the child.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During a vaso-occlusive crisis in sickle cell anemia, maintaining bed rest is crucial to reduce oxygen consumption and alleviate pain. Movement can worsen the crisis by increasing sickling of red blood cells, leading to further tissue damage and pain. Bed rest helps to improve blood flow, reduce pain, and promote healing. Administering meperidine for pain (Choice A) is not recommended due to the risk of normeperidine accumulation and potential neurotoxicity. Applying cold compresses (Choice B) may cause vasoconstriction, worsening the vaso-occlusive crisis. Limiting fluid intake (Choice C) is not appropriate as adequate hydration is essential to prevent dehydration and maintain blood flow.

3. A caregiver is learning about administering digoxin to a toddler. Which statement by the caregiver indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will mix the medication with a small amount of juice.
• B. I will give the medication with meals.
• C. I will give a second dose if my child vomits.
• D. I will give my child water after giving the medication.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct statement is D because giving the child water after administering digoxin helps ensure the medication is swallowed properly. Mixing the medication with juice (choice A) may affect its absorption. Giving the medication with meals (choice B) may interfere with its effectiveness. Administering a second dose if the child vomits (choice C) is not recommended as it may lead to an overdose.

4. The healthcare provider is explaining to a 17-year-old female the actions to prevent urinary tract infection. Which is the best beverage for the healthcare provider to recommend to keep urine acidic?

• A. Milk
• B. Grape juice
• C. Apple juice
• D. Orange juice

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To maintain the acidity of urine and potentially prevent urinary tract infections, juices such as apple or cranberry are recommended due to their ability to create an acidic environment in the urinary tract that may help inhibit bacterial growth.

5. When a patient is taking glucocorticoids and digoxin, which electrolyte should the nurse prioritize monitoring?

• A. Calcium
• B. Magnesium
• C. Sodium
• D. Potassium

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should primarily monitor potassium levels in a patient taking glucocorticoids and digoxin. Glucocorticoids can lead to potassium loss, potentially increasing the risk of digoxin toxicity. Additionally, glucocorticoids may worsen hypokalemia induced by diuretics like thiazides and loops. While calcium, magnesium, and sodium are important electrolytes to monitor in various clinical situations, they are not the priority in this specific scenario of a patient on glucocorticoids and digoxin.

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