Nursing Elites

1. A patient with a history of breast cancer is prescribed tamoxifen (Nolvadex). What critical information should the nurse include in the patient education?

• A. Tamoxifen may increase the risk of venous thromboembolism, so patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of blood clots.
• B. Tamoxifen may cause weight gain, so patients should monitor their diet.
• C. Tamoxifen may decrease the risk of osteoporosis, so patients should ensure adequate calcium intake.
• D. Tamoxifen may cause hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Tamoxifen increases the risk of venous thromboembolism, so patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of blood clots and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if they occur.

2. What physiological reaction occurs in the body with the 'Fight or flight' response?

• A. Increased heart rate
• B. Constricted pupils
• C. Decreased blood pressure
• D. Decreased heart rate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The 'fight or flight' response is a primal physiological reaction that prepares the body to respond to a perceived threat or danger. This response triggers an increase in heart rate to pump more blood to the muscles and vital organs, preparing the body for action. Choice B, 'Constricted pupils,' is part of the 'fight or flight' response as well, as it helps improve focus and vision. Choice C, 'Decreased blood pressure,' is incorrect because blood pressure typically increases to ensure adequate circulation during the 'fight or flight' response. Choice D, 'Decreased heart rate,' is incorrect as the heart rate increases to supply more oxygen and nutrients to the body during times of stress.

3. Two people experience the same stressor yet only one is able to cope and adapt adequately. An example of the person with an increased capacity to adapt is the one with:

• A. A sense of purpose in life
• B. Circadian rhythm disruption
• C. Age-related renal dysfunction
• D. Excessive weight gain or loss

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A strong sense of purpose in life is associated with better stress coping mechanisms, which can enhance a person's capacity to adapt. Having a clear sense of purpose provides individuals with motivation, direction, and resilience to face challenges. Choices B, C, and D are not directly related to an increased capacity to adapt to stress. Circadian rhythm disruption, age-related renal dysfunction, and excessive weight gain or loss may have negative impacts on overall well-being and stress management.

4. A 65-year-old man is admitted to the intensive care unit from the operating room after a triple coronary artery bypass graft. He is intubated and on a ventilator. Lactic acid levels were normal postoperatively, but now they are rising. The increased level could be an indication of:

• A. excessive sedation
• B. bowel ischemia
• C. excessive volume infusion in the operating room
• D. mild hypothermia postoperatively

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the rising lactic acid levels in a 65-year-old man after a coronary artery bypass graft could indicate bowel ischemia. Bowel ischemia can lead to anaerobic metabolism, causing an increase in lactic acid levels. Excessive sedation may cause respiratory depression but would not directly lead to rising lactic acid levels. Excessive volume infusion in the operating room might cause fluid overload but would not typically result in rising lactic acid levels. Mild hypothermia postoperatively could lead to shivering and increased oxygen consumption, but it is less likely to be the primary cause of rising lactic acid levels in this context.

5. What symptoms would the nurse expect to see in a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

• A. Dyspnea on exertion
• B. Normal lung sounds
• C. Normal arterial blood gases
• D. Onset of the disease during young adulthood

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Dyspnea on exertion. COPD typically manifests with symptoms like dyspnea on exertion due to impaired lung function. This symptom is a result of the airways being obstructed and the lungs not being able to expel air effectively. Choices B and C are incorrect because in COPD, abnormal lung sounds such as wheezing, crackles, or diminished breath sounds are often heard upon auscultation, and arterial blood gases are usually abnormal, showing low oxygen levels and high carbon dioxide levels. Choice D is incorrect as COPD is more commonly diagnosed in individuals over 40 who have a history of smoking or exposure to lung irritants.

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