Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is reviewing laboratory results for a client who has been taking carbamazepine. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional report to the provider?

• A. WBC count 3,000/mm3
• B. Platelet count 150,000/mm3
• C. Hemoglobin 14 g/dL
• D. Serum potassium 4.5 mEq/L

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A WBC count of 3,000/mm3 indicates leukopenia, a serious side effect of carbamazepine. Leukopenia can increase the risk of infections due to decreased white blood cell count, which is important to report to the provider for further evaluation and management. Platelet count within normal range (choice B), hemoglobin level within normal range (choice C), and serum potassium level within normal range (choice D) are not directly associated with carbamazepine use and do not require immediate reporting as they do not indicate a serious adverse effect.

2. A client with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is prescribed warfarin (Coumadin). The nurse should include which instruction in the discharge teaching?

• A. Take the medication at the same time each day
• B. Avoid green leafy vegetables in your diet
• C. Increase your intake of vitamin K-rich foods
• D. Stop the medication if you notice any bruising

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Taking warfarin at the same time each day is crucial to maintain consistent blood levels and ensure the effectiveness of the medication in preventing clot formation. Consistent timing helps in monitoring and adjusting the dosage as needed to keep the international normalized ratio (INR) within the therapeutic range to prevent clotting events or excessive bleeding. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Avoiding green leafy vegetables is a misconception; while they are high in vitamin K which antagonizes warfarin, they should not be avoided but consumed in moderation. Increasing vitamin K-rich foods can interfere with warfarin's effectiveness. Stopping the medication due to bruising can be dangerous as it may indicate a clotting problem that the medication is intended to prevent.

3. When preparing to administer a controlled substance, which of the following actions is required?

• A. Check the client's identification bracelet.
• B. Check the client's allergy status.
• C. Have a second nurse witness disposal of the medication.
• D. Document the administration in the client's medical record.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When administering controlled substances, it is crucial to have a second nurse witness the disposal of the medication. This measure ensures proper handling, reduces the risk of diversion, and promotes compliance with regulations regarding controlled substances. Having a second nurse witness the disposal is a safeguard to maintain accountability and prevent any potential misuse or errors during the disposal process. Checking the client's identification bracelet and allergy status are important steps in medication administration but are not specifically required for controlled substances. Documenting the administration in the client's medical record is essential but does not specifically relate to the disposal of controlled substances.

4. The nurse is caring for a client with a diagnosis of myocardial infarction (MI) and is assisting the client in completing the diet menu. Which beverage does the nurse instruct the client to select from the menu?

• A. Tea
• B. Cola
• C. Coffee
• D. Lemonade

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Lemonade is the correct choice as it is caffeine-free, unlike tea, cola, and coffee, which contain caffeine that can potentially affect the client's heart rhythm. Caffeine can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which may not be advisable for a client with a recent MI. Tea, cola, and coffee should be avoided due to their caffeine content, which can have stimulant effects on the heart and may not be beneficial for a client recovering from a myocardial infarction.

5. The LPN/LVN is collecting data on a client with a diagnosis of angina pectoris who takes nitroglycerin for chest pain. During the admission, the client reports chest pain. The nurse should immediately ask the client which question?

• A. Are you having any nausea?
• B. Where is the pain located?
• C. Are you allergic to any medications?
• D. Do you have your nitroglycerin with you?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a client with angina pectoris, determining the location of chest pain is crucial for assessing the potential severity and cause. This information helps the nurse to further evaluate the nature of the pain and its probable origin, aiding in timely and appropriate interventions. Choices A, C, and D are not as immediately relevant as determining the location of the chest pain when assessing a client with angina pectoris.

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