Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who has a new prescription for spironolactone. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Potassium 4.0 mEq/L
• B. Calcium 9.5 mg/dL
• C. Magnesium 2.0 mEq/L
• D. Serum creatinine 3.0 mg/dL

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A serum creatinine level of 3.0 mg/dL indicates impaired kidney function, which is a concern when prescribing spironolactone as it can further affect renal function. Elevated serum creatinine levels may suggest decreased renal clearance of spironolactone, leading to potential toxicity. Potassium, calcium, and magnesium levels are within normal ranges and not directly related to spironolactone therapy. Therefore, the nurse should report the elevated serum creatinine level to the provider for further evaluation and possible dosage adjustment.

2. A nurse manager is planning to teach staff about critical pathways. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

• A. Critical pathways have unlimited timeframes for completion.
• B. Critical pathways are designed to decrease health care costs.
• C. Patients follow the critical pathway if variances occur.
• D. Budgets are used to create the critical pathway.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Critical pathways are structured, multi-disciplinary plans of care designed to decrease health care costs and improve outcomes by standardizing and streamlining processes. Choice A is incorrect because critical pathways have specific timeframes for completion. Choice C is incorrect as patients are expected to follow the critical pathway without deviations to achieve optimal outcomes. Choice D is incorrect because budgets do not create critical pathways; rather, they are based on clinical guidelines and best practices.

3. A healthcare provider is teaching a client who has a new diagnosis of hypertension about dietary management. Which of the following foods should the healthcare provider instruct the client to avoid?

• A. Bananas
• B. Carrots
• C. Bacon
• D. Chicken breast

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Bacon is high in sodium, which can elevate blood pressure levels. Clients with hypertension should avoid high-sodium foods like bacon to help manage their blood pressure. Choices A, B, and D are healthier options compared to bacon and can be included in a balanced diet for someone with hypertension. Bananas are a good source of potassium, which can help in managing blood pressure. Carrots are low in sodium and high in fiber, making them a heart-healthy choice. Chicken breast is a lean protein option that is beneficial for individuals with hypertension.

4. A nurse is assessing a client who has a potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Diarrhea
• B. Muscle weakness
• C. Hypertension
• D. Bradycardia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Muscle weakness is a common finding in clients with hypokalemia, as potassium is essential for proper muscle function. Diarrhea (choice A) is more commonly associated with hyperkalemia rather than hypokalemia. Hypertension (choice C) is not typically a direct result of low potassium levels. Bradycardia (choice D) is more commonly associated with hyperkalemia, not hypokalemia.

5. A nurse is providing teaching about gastrostomy tube feedings to the parents of a school-age child. Which of the following instructions should the nurse give?

• A. Administer the feeding over 30 minutes
• B. Place the child in a supine position after the feeding
• C. Change the feeding bag and tubing every 3 days
• D. Warm the formula in the microwave prior to administration

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to administer the feeding over 30 minutes. This slow administration helps prevent complications like nausea. Placing the child in a supine position after the feeding can increase the risk of aspiration, making choice B incorrect. Changing the feeding bag and tubing every 3 days is important for infection control and hygiene but is not directly related to the administration process, making choice C incorrect. Warming the formula in the microwave is not recommended as it can create hot spots that may burn the child's mouth or esophagus, so choice D is incorrect.

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