Nursing Elites

1. A client has a new prescription for clonidine to treat hypertension. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Discontinue the medication if a rash develops.
• B. Expect increased salivation during the first few weeks of therapy.
• C. Avoid driving until the client's reaction to the medication is known.
• D. Stop the medication if you experience a dry mouth.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client starting clonidine therapy for hypertension is to avoid driving until their reaction to the medication is known. Clonidine can cause drowsiness, so it is important for the client to refrain from activities that require alertness until they are aware of how the medication affects them. Choice A is incorrect because a rash is not a common side effect of clonidine. Choice B is incorrect as increased salivation is not an expected side effect of clonidine. Choice D is also incorrect as dry mouth is a common side effect of clonidine, but it is not a reason to stop the medication unless severe or bothersome. Therefore, the priority instruction for the nurse to include is to advise the client to avoid driving until their reaction to the medication is known to ensure safety.

2. A client has a new prescription for Hydrochlorothiazide. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take the medication in the morning.
• B. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods.
• C. Expect decreased urination within the first few days.
• D. Avoid foods high in potassium.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods.' Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that can lead to hypokalemia by increasing potassium excretion. Therefore, instructing the client to increase their intake of potassium-rich foods is essential to prevent electrolyte imbalances and support overall health. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Instructing the client to take the medication in the morning is not directly related to the medication's mechanism of action. Expecting decreased urination within the first few days is not accurate as the medication is a diuretic that typically increases urination. Also, advising the client to avoid foods high in potassium would not be suitable, as increasing potassium-rich foods is necessary to counteract potential potassium depletion caused by Hydrochlorothiazide.

3. A client has a prescription for Prednisone for the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will increase my intake of potassium-rich foods.
• B. I should take my medication with food.
• C. I will decrease my intake of calcium-rich foods.
• D. I should avoid eating grapefruit while taking this medication.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Prednisone can cause hypokalemia, leading to low potassium levels. Increasing the intake of potassium-rich foods helps prevent this imbalance. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because taking Prednisone with food, decreasing calcium-rich foods, or avoiding grapefruit are not specifically related to addressing the side effect of hypokalemia associated with Prednisone.

4. What should you assess for in a patient who is on Valproate?

• A. Suicidal thoughts
• B. Monitor for seizures
• C. Bipolar disorder
• D. Migraines

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Suicidal thoughts. When a patient is prescribed Valproate, it is crucial to assess for suicidal thoughts as it is a serious side effect associated with this medication. Valproate has been linked to an increased risk of suicidal ideation and behavior, particularly in patients with epilepsy or bipolar disorder. Monitoring for signs of depression or changes in behavior is essential to ensure patient safety and well-being. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while monitoring for seizures, managing bipolar disorder, and treating migraines are also important considerations when a patient is on Valproate, assessing for suicidal thoughts takes priority due to the serious nature of this potential side effect.

5. When educating a client starting Simvastatin, which instruction should the nurse provide?

• A. Take this medication in the evening.
• B. Change positions slowly when rising from a chair.
• C. Maintain a consistent intake of green leafy vegetables.
• D. Limit fluid intake to 1 L per day.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to take Simvastatin in the evening. This timing is important because the body synthesizes the most cholesterol at night. By taking the medication in the evening, its effectiveness is increased, leading to better outcomes for the client.

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