Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare provider is reviewing the medical record of a client who has Cushing's disease. Which of the following findings should the healthcare provider expect?

• A. Decreased serum glucose level
• B. Increased lymphocyte count
• C. Increased serum potassium level
• D. Decreased serum sodium level

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In Cushing's disease, there is increased cortisol production, which can lead to various metabolic disturbances. One of the common findings is an increased serum potassium level. The other options are incorrect because Cushing's disease typically causes hyperglycemia, not decreased serum glucose levels (A), lymphocytopenia, not increased lymphocyte count (B), and hyponatremia, not decreased serum sodium level (D).

2. A nurse is assessing a client who is receiving furosemide for heart failure. Which of the following findings is the priority to report to the provider?

• A. Blood pressure of 98/58 mm Hg
• B. Urine output of 50 mL/hr
• C. Serum potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L
• D. Weight loss of 0.5 kg (1.1 lb) in 24 hours

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. A serum potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L indicates hypokalemia, a potential complication of furosemide therapy, and should be reported immediately. Hypokalemia can lead to serious cardiac dysrhythmias. Choices A, B, and D are important assessments but are not as critical as managing serum potassium levels in a client receiving furosemide for heart failure.

3. What is the most effective intervention for a patient experiencing acute pain?

• A. Administer analgesics
• B. Reposition the patient
• C. Provide non-pharmacological interventions
• D. Administer IV fluids

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering analgesics is the most effective intervention for a patient experiencing acute pain as it directly targets the pain receptors and provides relief. Repositioning the patient may help in some cases, but it is not the primary intervention for managing acute pain. Non-pharmacological interventions can be beneficial as adjuncts to pain management but might not provide immediate relief. Administering IV fluids is not a standard intervention for acute pain unless dehydration is contributing to the pain.

4. A client has a prescription for digoxin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take this medication with food.
• B. Avoid taking antacids at the same time as this medication.
• C. Take this medication if your heart rate is above 100/min.
• D. Notify your provider if you experience nausea or visual changes.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction the nurse should include for a client prescribed digoxin is to notify the provider if they experience nausea or visual changes, as these symptoms can indicate digoxin toxicity. Option A is incorrect because digoxin should be taken on an empty stomach for better absorption. Option B is incorrect as antacids can interfere with the absorption of digoxin. Option C is incorrect as taking digoxin based on heart rate alone is not appropriate.

5. During an in-service about nursing leadership, what information should the nurse include about an effective leader?

• A. Acts as an advocate for the nursing unit.
• B. Prioritizes staff requests over client needs.
• C. Shares personal opinions to influence the group's values.
• D. Provides routine client care and documentation.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An effective leader advocates for the unit's success and its members. Choice B is incorrect because prioritizing staff requests over client needs does not align with effective leadership, which should focus on client-centered care. Choice C is incorrect as sharing personal opinions to influence the group's values can be biased and may not reflect the best interest of the team. Choice D is incorrect because while providing client care is essential, effective leadership involves more than routine tasks and includes guiding and supporting the team.

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