Nursing Elites

1. When educating a client who has a new prescription for Levothyroxine to treat hypothyroidism, which of the following instructions should be included?

• A. Take the medication first thing in the morning before eating.
• B. Take the medication at bedtime to avoid drowsiness.
• C. Take the medication with food to prevent nausea.
• D. Take the medication with a glass of milk.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Levothyroxine should be taken first thing in the morning before eating to ensure optimal absorption. Taking it on an empty stomach helps prevent interactions with food or other medications that may decrease its effectiveness. It is important to follow this timing recommendation to maintain consistent thyroid hormone levels in the body. Choice B is incorrect as taking Levothyroxine at bedtime may lead to inconsistent absorption and affect its efficacy. Choice C is incorrect because taking Levothyroxine with food can interfere with its absorption. Choice D is incorrect as Levothyroxine should be taken with a full glass of water, not milk, to aid in proper absorption.

2. A healthcare provider is educating a client who has a prescription for Theophylline. Which of the following instructions should the healthcare provider include?

• A. Avoid caffeine while taking this medication.
• B. You should increase your fluid intake.
• C. Take this medication in the evening.
• D. You may experience increased appetite while on this medication.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Avoid caffeine while taking this medication.' Caffeine can increase the risk of theophylline toxicity as it competes for the same metabolic pathways. Consuming caffeine while on theophylline can lead to adverse effects. Choice B is incorrect because although maintaining adequate hydration is important, it is not a specific instruction related to theophylline use. Choice C is incorrect as the timing of the medication administration should be based on the healthcare provider's recommendation and the client's individual needs. Choice D is incorrect as increased appetite is not a common side effect associated with theophylline.

3. A healthcare professional is planning to administer Morphine IV to a postoperative client. Which of the following actions should the healthcare professional take?

• A. Monitor for seizures and confusion with repeated doses.
• B. Protect the client's skin from severe diarrhea that occurs with morphine.
• C. Withhold this medication if the respiratory rate is less than 12/min.
• D. Administer Morphine intermittently via IV bolus over 30 seconds or less.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action the healthcare professional should take when administering Morphine IV to a postoperative client is to withhold the medication if the respiratory rate is less than 12/min. Respiratory depression is a common adverse effect of opioids like Morphine. Administering opioids when the respiratory rate is already compromised can further depress breathing, leading to life-threatening complications. Monitoring for seizures and confusion (Choice A) is not directly related to Morphine administration. Protecting the client's skin from severe diarrhea (Choice B) is not a common side effect of morphine. Administering Morphine via IV bolus (Choice D) should be done carefully but is not the most critical action in this scenario.

4. Following a stroke, a client has been started on clopidogrel (Plavix). Why is this medication being administered?

• A. To prevent stroke in high-risk patients, such as those with prosthetic heart valves
• B. To decrease blood pressure
• C. To increase heart rate
• D. To provide antiplatelet activity in patients who cannot tolerate aspirin

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Clopidogrel (Plavix) is an antiplatelet medication that inhibits platelet aggregation, reducing the risk of blood clots. It is commonly used in patients who have had a stroke and cannot tolerate aspirin due to allergies or intolerances. Choosing clopidogrel in these cases helps prevent further clot formation and reduces the risk of recurrent strokes.

5. When a nurse assesses a client's IV catheter insertion site and notes a hematoma, which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.)

• A. Stop the infusion.
• B. Apply alcohol to the insertion site.
• C. Apply warm compresses to the insertion site.
• D. Elevate the client's arm.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a nurse detects a hematoma at the IV catheter insertion site, applying warm compresses is beneficial as it can promote healing by enhancing circulation and reducing swelling. Elevating the client's arm helps in reducing edema, which can relieve pressure, pain, and further bleeding in the hematoma area. Stopping the infusion may be necessary in certain situations, but it is not a standard action for all hematoma cases. Applying alcohol to the insertion site is discouraged as it can cause irritation and may not aid in resolving the hematoma.

Similar Questions