Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is reviewing the medication metformin with a client who has diabetes. Which of the following side effects should the nurse discuss?

• A. Gastrointestinal upset
• B. Increased appetite
• C. Weight loss
• D. Frequent urination

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Gastrointestinal upset. Metformin can cause gastrointestinal upset, especially when first starting therapy. It is important to take it with food to reduce these effects. Increased appetite (choice B) and weight loss (choice C) are not common side effects of metformin but may occur due to improved blood sugar control. Frequent urination (choice D) is a symptom of uncontrolled diabetes and not a side effect of metformin.

2. A client is receiving magnesium sulfate for preeclampsia. Which finding indicates magnesium toxicity?

• A. Respiratory rate of 12/min
• B. Diminished deep tendon reflexes
• C. Urine output 40 mL/hr
• D. Systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Diminished deep tendon reflexes are a sign of magnesium toxicity. Magnesium sulfate can depress the central nervous system, leading to decreased reflexes. Respiratory rate of 12/min, urine output 40 mL/hr, and systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg are not specific findings of magnesium toxicity. Respiratory depression, oliguria, and hypotension are more concerning signs that require immediate attention.

3. While assessing the IV infusion site of a client who reports pain at the site, a nurse notes redness and warmth along the vein. What should the nurse do?

• A. Continue the infusion
• B. Increase the infusion rate
• C. Discontinue the infusion
• D. Apply a cold compress

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The symptoms described indicate phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein. In this case, the nurse should discontinue the infusion to prevent further complications. Continuing the infusion or increasing the rate can exacerbate the condition. Applying a cold compress is not recommended for phlebitis; instead, a warm compress can help alleviate discomfort.

4. A laboring client received meperidine IV one hour prior to delivery. Which of the following medications should the nurse have available to counteract the effects of this medication on the newborn?

• A. Naloxone
• B. Epinephrine
• C. Atropine
• D. Diazepam

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Meperidine is an opioid analgesic that can cross the placenta and cause respiratory depression in the newborn. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that is administered to reverse the effects of opioids. It is critical to have Naloxone available when opioids are administered during labor, especially close to delivery. Epinephrine is not used to counteract the effects of opioids but rather for managing severe allergic reactions or cardiac arrest. Atropine is used for specific conditions like bradycardia, not to counteract opioid effects. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine used for anxiety, seizures, and muscle spasms, not for reversing opioid effects.

5. A nurse is caring for an older adult patient who is disoriented and has a history of falls. What actions should the nurse take?

• A. Place the bed in the lowest position, instruct the patient to remain in bed, ensure the bedside table is within reach.
• B. Instruct the patient to use the call light, apply an ambulation alarm to the patient’s leg, check on the patient hourly.
• C. Assign a sitter to monitor the patient, raise the bed rails, provide the patient with a call button.
• D. Check on the patient every two hours, provide verbal reminders to use the call light, lock the bed wheels.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct actions for the nurse to take involve ensuring patient safety and fall prevention measures. Choice B is the correct answer because instructing the patient to use the call light allows them to signal for help, applying an ambulation alarm helps detect movement, and checking on the patient hourly increases monitoring frequency. These actions are essential for preventing falls in a disoriented patient with a history of falls. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect: A does not provide adequate monitoring or fall prevention measures, C relies solely on assigning a sitter without utilizing technological aids, and D lacks continuous monitoring and specific fall prevention strategies.

Similar Questions