Nursing Elites

1. A patient with a history of breast cancer is being prescribed tamoxifen (Nolvadex). What should the nurse include in the patient education about the use of this medication?

• A. Tamoxifen may increase the risk of venous thromboembolism, so the patient should be aware of the signs and symptoms of blood clots.
• B. Tamoxifen may cause hot flashes, so the patient should be prepared for this side effect.
• C. Tamoxifen may decrease the risk of osteoporosis, so the patient should ensure adequate calcium intake.
• D. Tamoxifen may cause weight gain, so the patient should monitor their diet and exercise regularly.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Tamoxifen is known to increase the risk of venous thromboembolism, a serious side effect. Patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of blood clots, such as swelling, pain, or redness in the affected limb, and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if they occur. Choice B is incorrect because hot flashes are a common side effect of tamoxifen but not a critical concern like venous thromboembolism. Choice C is incorrect as tamoxifen is not associated with a decreased risk of osteoporosis. Choice D is incorrect because while weight gain can occur with tamoxifen, it is not as crucial to educate the patient about as the risk of venous thromboembolism.

2. What should the nurse assess in a patient experiencing breakthrough bleeding while taking oral contraceptives?

• A. Adherence to the medication schedule
• B. The possibility of pregnancy
• C. The need for an increased dosage
• D. The effectiveness of the current oral contraceptive

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a patient on oral contraceptives experiences breakthrough bleeding, the nurse should assess the patient's adherence to the medication schedule. Breakthrough bleeding is often a sign of non-adherence, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the contraceptives. Assessing the adherence to the schedule helps in determining if the medication is being taken correctly. The possibility of pregnancy (choice B) is less likely if the patient has been taking the contraceptives as prescribed. Increasing the dosage (choice C) without assessing adherence first can lead to unnecessary medication adjustments. Evaluating the effectiveness of the current oral contraceptive (choice D) comes after assessing adherence to the schedule.

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 client has approached the nurse asking for advice on how to deal with his alcohol addiction. The nurse should tell the client that the only effective treatment for alcoholism is:

• A. psychotherapy.
• B. total abstinence.
• C. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
• D. aversion therapy.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: total abstinence. Total abstinence from alcohol is considered the most effective treatment for alcoholism. This approach eliminates the risk of relapse and helps individuals maintain sobriety. While psychotherapy can be beneficial in addressing underlying issues, total abstinence is crucial in overcoming alcohol addiction. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a supportive group that can complement treatment, but it is not the only effective approach. Aversion therapy aims to create a negative association with alcohol but may not address the underlying causes of addiction, making total abstinence a more comprehensive and recommended approach.

5. Which of the following factors are known to contribute to an individual's ability to adapt to stress? (Select ONE that does not apply.)

• A. Ethnicity
• B. Age
• C. Socioeconomic status
• D. Gender

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct factors that contribute to an individual's ability to adapt to stress are age, socioeconomic status, and gender. Age can influence coping mechanisms and resilience. Socioeconomic status can impact access to resources and support systems. Gender differences can also play a role in how individuals experience and manage stress. Ethnicity, while important in other contexts, is not directly mentioned in the provided rationale and is not one of the factors listed as contributing to an individual's ability to adapt to stress.

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