a patient with a history of breast cancer is prescribed tamoxifen nolvadex what critical information should the nurse include in the patient education

ATI RN

Pathophysiology Exam 1 Quizlet

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. Which of the following findings is commonly associated with congestive heart failure?

A. Decreased jugular venous pressure
B. Pulmonary edema
C. Hyperactive bowel sounds
D. Weight loss

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Pulmonary edema is a common finding in congestive heart failure. In congestive heart failure, the heart is unable to pump effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs, causing pulmonary edema. This results in symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. Choices A, C, and D are not typically associated with congestive heart failure. Jugular venous pressure is often elevated, not decreased in heart failure. Hyperactive bowel sounds and weight loss are not specific findings for congestive heart failure.

3. A nurse is providing care for a 44-year-old male client who is admitted with a diagnosis of fever of unknown origin (FUO). Which characteristic of the client's history is most likely to have a bearing on his current diagnosis?

A. The client is a smoker.
B. The client has a history of IV drug use.
C. The client was treated for an STD 2 years ago.
D. The client has a family history of cardiac disease.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A history of IV drug use is significant in cases of fever of unknown origin, as it increases the risk of infections like endocarditis, which can present with persistent fever. Smoking (Choice A) is not directly linked to FUO. While a history of STD treatment (Choice C) may be relevant, it is less likely to be associated with FUO compared to IV drug use. Family history of cardiac disease (Choice D) is not typically a primary factor in the diagnosis of FUO.

4. What causes secondary brain injury after head trauma?

A. Brain injury resulting from the body’s response to tissue damage
B. Brain injury resulting from initial trauma
C. Injury as a result of medical therapy
D. Focal areas of bleeding

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Secondary brain injury occurs due to the body's response to the initial trauma, which can worsen the effects of the primary injury. This response includes processes like inflammation, increased intracranial pressure, and reduced oxygen delivery to tissues. Choice B is incorrect because it refers to the primary trauma itself, not the secondary injury. Choice C is incorrect as it relates to injury caused by medical interventions rather than the body's response. Choice D is incorrect as it specifically mentions focal areas of bleeding, which is a consequence of trauma rather than the cause of secondary brain injury.

5. Macular degeneration occurs as a result of:

A. loss of lens accommodation
B. detachment of the retina
C. increased intraocular pressure
D. impaired blood supply leading to cellular waste accumulation and ischemia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Macular degeneration is a condition that affects the macula, a part of the retina responsible for central vision. It is primarily caused by impaired blood supply to the macula, leading to cellular waste accumulation and ischemia. This results in the death of photoreceptor cells and ultimately vision loss. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because macular degeneration is not related to the loss of lens accommodation, detachment of the retina, or increased intraocular pressure. The correct answer directly addresses the underlying pathophysiology of macular degeneration.