Nursing Elites

1. What class of laxative would the nurse recommend to a patient asking about the best way to prevent constipation?

• A. Stimulant laxatives
• B. Bulk-forming laxatives
• C. Emollient laxatives
• D. Hyperosmotic laxatives

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Bulk-forming laxatives. These laxatives are recommended to prevent constipation because they work by absorbing liquid in the intestines, forming a bulky, soft stool that is easier to pass. They are safe and considered the most natural option. Stimulant laxatives (choice A) work by promoting bowel movements through intestinal contractions and are more suitable for treating occasional constipation rather than preventing it. Emollient laxatives (choice C) soften the stool by increasing the incorporation of water into the feces and are more suitable for patients who need to avoid straining during defecation. Hyperosmotic laxatives (choice D) work by drawing water into the intestine through osmosis and are typically used for more severe cases of constipation, not for prevention.

2. A client who is newly diagnosed with erosive esophagitis secondary to GERD experiences symptoms after taking lansoprazole PO for one full week. Which actions should the nurse take?

• A. Confirm that the client is taking the medication correctly
• B. Auscultate the client's bowel sounds and assess the apical pulse
• C. Advise the client that healing typically takes several weeks
• D. Notify the healthcare provider to consider a higher dose

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation is to advise the client that healing from erosive esophagitis typically takes several weeks. Providing this information helps manage the client's expectations and anxiety about treatment effectiveness. It is not necessary to confirm medication timing, assess bowel sounds, or measure the apical pulse at this point. Since symptoms persist after one week of lansoprazole, it may not be appropriate to immediately escalate to a higher dose without further assessment or guidance from the healthcare provider. Auscultating bowel sounds and assessing the apical pulse are not relevant to the client's symptoms related to erosive esophagitis and GERD.

3. A client diagnosed with seizures is prescribed phenytoin. Which medication instruction should the practical nurse (PN) reinforce to this client?

• A. Maintain consistent sodium intake.
• B. Use sunscreen when outdoors.
• C. Return for monthly urinalysis.
• D. Brush and floss teeth daily.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to reinforce the instruction to brush and floss teeth daily. Phenytoin therapy can lead to gingival hyperplasia (gum disease), which can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing daily. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they are not directly related to the side effects or management of phenytoin therapy. Maintaining consistent sodium intake is not a specific concern with phenytoin. Using sunscreen when outdoors is important to prevent sunburn but is not directly related to phenytoin therapy. Returning for monthly urinalysis may be necessary for other medications, but it is not specifically required for monitoring phenytoin therapy.

4. A client with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is prescribed carbamazepine. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?

• A. Agranulocytosis
• B. Hair loss
• C. Liver toxicity
• D. Weight gain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Carbamazepine is associated with the potential adverse effect of agranulocytosis, a serious condition characterized by a low white blood cell count. Monitoring white blood cell counts regularly is crucial to detect this adverse effect early and prevent complications.

5. A client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed methotrexate. The nurse should include which instruction in the client's teaching plan?

• A. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
• B. Take this medication with food to decrease gastrointestinal upset.
• C. Avoid sunlight while taking this medication.
• D. Report any signs of infection to the healthcare provider.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed methotrexate is to avoid sunlight while taking this medication. Methotrexate can increase sensitivity to sunlight, leading to skin reactions. It is essential for clients to limit sun exposure and use protective measures like sunscreen and clothing coverage to prevent adverse effects. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because avoiding alcohol, taking with food, and reporting signs of infection are not specific instructions related to methotrexate therapy.

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