Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a client who has chronic kidney disease. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Hypernatremia
• B. Hypocalcemia
• C. Low potassium
• D. Low magnesium

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In chronic kidney disease, the kidneys have impaired ability to activate vitamin D, leading to decreased production of calcitriol. Calcitriol is essential for calcium absorption in the intestines. Therefore, hypocalcemia is a common finding in chronic kidney disease. Hypernatremia (increased sodium levels) is not typically associated with chronic kidney disease. Low potassium and low magnesium are possible electrolyte imbalances in chronic kidney disease, but they are not as directly related to the impaired activation of vitamin D as hypocalcemia.

2. A nurse is reviewing the ABG results of a client with chronic emphysema. Which result suggests the need for further treatment?

• A. PaO2 level of 89 mm Hg
• B. PaCO2 level of 55 mm Hg
• C. HCO3 level of 25 mEq/L
• D. pH level of 7.37

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. A PaCO2 level of 55 mm Hg is elevated, indicating carbon dioxide retention, a common complication of emphysema that necessitates intervention. Elevated PaCO2 can lead to respiratory acidosis, reflecting inadequate ventilation. Choices A, C, and D are within normal ranges. A PaO2 level of 89 mm Hg is acceptable. An HCO3 level of 25 mEq/L falls within the normal range, suggesting adequate compensation. A pH level of 7.37 is also within the normal range, indicating the client's acid-base balance is maintained.

3. A patient scheduled for cataract surgery tells the nurse, 'I see just fine and have decided to cancel my surgery.' Which response should the nurse make?

• A. Tell the patient they need the surgery
• B. Encourage the patient to express their thoughts
• C. Ignore the comment and proceed
• D. Insist the patient needs to proceed with the surgery

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Encouraging the patient to express their thoughts is the best response in this situation. It allows the patient to voice their concerns or reasons for canceling the surgery, which can help the healthcare team address any misunderstandings or fears the patient may have. Choices A and D are too directive and do not consider the patient's autonomy and right to make informed decisions about their care. Choice C is inappropriate as it disregards the patient's expressed decision and fails to address the underlying issue.

4. A healthcare professional is assessing a client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Which of the following interventions should the healthcare professional include in the plan of care?

• A. Apply ice packs to the affected extremity.
• B. Encourage ambulation every hour.
• C. Elevate the affected leg when in bed.
• D. Massage the affected area to improve circulation.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Elevating the affected leg is a crucial intervention in the care of a client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This position helps reduce swelling and promotes venous return, which can alleviate symptoms associated with DVT. Applying ice packs (Choice A) may worsen the condition by causing vasoconstriction. Encouraging ambulation (Choice B) can dislodge the clot and lead to fatal complications. Massaging the affected area (Choice D) can also dislodge the clot and is contraindicated in DVT.

5. A client with a new diagnosis of hypertension is being taught about lifestyle modifications by a nurse. What dietary change should the nurse recommend?

• A. Increase sodium intake
• B. Limit alcohol consumption
• C. Eat a high-protein diet
• D. Follow a high-fat diet

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Limit alcohol consumption. When managing hypertension, it is crucial to reduce alcohol intake as it can raise blood pressure. High alcohol consumption can also interfere with the effectiveness of antihypertensive medications. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Increasing sodium intake (Choice A) is not recommended for hypertension as it can lead to fluid retention and elevated blood pressure. Eating a high-protein diet (Choice C) or following a high-fat diet (Choice D) are also not ideal for managing hypertension, as they can have negative impacts on cardiovascular health.

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