Nursing Elites

1. A patient is starting on alendronate (Fosamax) for osteoporosis. What instructions should the nurse provide to ensure the effectiveness of the medication?

• A. Take the medication with a full glass of water and remain upright for at least 30 minutes.
• B. Take the medication at bedtime to ensure absorption during sleep.
• C. Take the medication with milk to enhance calcium absorption.
• D. Take the medication with food to prevent gastrointestinal upset.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to take alendronate with a full glass of water and remain upright for at least 30 minutes. This is essential to prevent esophageal irritation and ensure proper absorption. Choice B is incorrect because taking alendronate at bedtime can increase the risk of esophageal irritation due to lying down. Choice C is incorrect as taking alendronate with milk can reduce its absorption. Choice D is incorrect because alendronate should be taken on an empty stomach to enhance its effectiveness.

2. Which of the following is the most appropriate diagnostic method for identifying lung cancer in its early stages?

• A. CT scan
• B. MRI
• C. X-ray
• D. Biopsy

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A biopsy is the most appropriate method for diagnosing lung cancer in its early stages. A biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample from the lung for examination under a microscope. This method provides a definitive diagnosis by identifying cancerous cells. CT scans, MRIs, and X-rays can help detect abnormalities in the lungs, but a biopsy is necessary to confirm the presence of lung cancer. CT scans offer detailed images of the lung's structure, MRIs use magnetic fields for imaging soft tissues, and X-rays provide a basic view of the lungs, but none of these imaging techniques can definitively confirm the presence of cancer without a biopsy.

3. In gout, a man has developed large, hard nodules around his toes and elbows. The phase of gout he is in is:

• A. asymptomatic.
• B. acute flare.
• C. the intercritical period.
• D. chronic gout.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The man's presentation of large, hard nodules around his toes and elbows is indicative of tophi formation, which is characteristic of chronic gout. Tophi are deposits of uric acid crystals that can develop over time in untreated or poorly managed gout. During the chronic phase of gout, tophi can form in joints, soft tissues, and organs. Asymptomatic refers to a phase where there are no symptoms present. Acute flare is characterized by sudden and severe joint pain and inflammation. The intercritical period is the time between gout attacks when the patient is symptom-free.

4. A nurse is caring for a client with a newly inserted pacemaker. What is the most important nursing action post-procedure?

• A. Monitor the insertion site for signs of infection.
• B. Educate the client about activity restrictions.
• C. Monitor the client's heart rate and rhythm.
• D. Assess the client's lung sounds for signs of fluid overload.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Post-procedure, monitoring the insertion site for signs of infection is crucial because it helps in early detection of any potential complications such as infection. While educating the client about activity restrictions, monitoring the client's heart rate and rhythm, and assessing lung sounds for signs of fluid overload are important aspects of care, the immediate priority post-procedure is to prevent infection at the insertion site, which could lead to serious complications.

5. A 20-year-old college student has presented to the campus medical clinic seeking to begin oral contraceptive therapy. The nurse has recognized the need for adequate health education related to the patient's request. The nurse should emphasize the fact that successful prevention of pregnancy depends primarily on the patient's

• A. current health status.
• B. vigilant adherence to the drug regimen.
• C. knowledge of sexual health.
• D. risk factors for adverse effects.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'vigilant adherence to the drug regimen.' When initiating oral contraceptive therapy, the success of preventing pregnancy relies heavily on the patient's commitment to following the prescribed regimen consistently. Compliance with taking the oral contraceptives as directed is crucial for their effectiveness. Choice A, 'current health status,' is not the primary factor for successful prevention of pregnancy with oral contraceptives. Choice C, 'knowledge of sexual health,' while important, is not the primary determinant of contraceptive efficacy. Choice D, 'risk factors for adverse effects,' though relevant for monitoring and managing side effects, is not the primary focus for ensuring contraceptive success.

Similar Questions