Nursing Elites

1. After teaching a client with nephrotic syndrome and a normal glomerular filtration rate, the nurse assesses the client’s understanding. Which statement made by the client indicates a correct understanding of the nutritional therapy for this condition?

• A. I must decrease my intake of fat.
• B. I will increase my intake of protein.
• C. A decreased intake of carbohydrates will be required.
• D. An increased intake of vitamin C is necessary.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In nephrotic syndrome, there is significant renal loss of protein leading to hypoalbuminemia and edema formation. If glomerular filtration is normal or near normal, increased protein loss should be matched by an increased intake of protein. Therefore, the correct statement indicating a correct understanding of the nutritional therapy for this condition is increasing protein intake. Decreasing fat, decreasing carbohydrates, or increasing vitamin C intake is not necessary for addressing the underlying issues associated with nephrotic syndrome.

2. The nurse is teaching a nursing student about the minimal effective concentration (MEC) of antibiotics. Which statement by the nursing student indicates understanding of this concept?

• A. A serum drug level greater than the MEC ensures that the drug is bacteriostatic.
• B. A serum drug level greater than the MEC broadens the spectrum of the drug.
• C. A serum drug level greater than the MEC helps eradicate bacterial infections.
• D. A serum drug level greater than the MEC increases the therapeutic index.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The MEC is the minimum amount of drug needed to halt the growth of a microorganism. A level greater than the MEC helps eradicate infections. Drugs at or above the MEC are usually bactericidal, not bacteriostatic. Therefore, choice A is incorrect. Broadening the spectrum of a drug refers to its range of activity against different microorganisms, which is not directly related to MEC. Thus, choice B is incorrect. Increasing the therapeutic index involves maximizing the effectiveness of a drug while minimizing its toxicity, which is not specifically related to MEC. Therefore, choice D is also incorrect.

3. Which of the following is an expected finding in a patient with hypothyroidism?

• A. Weight gain.
• B. Weight loss.
• C. Increased appetite.
• D. Diarrhea.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Weight gain is an expected finding in hypothyroidism due to the decreased metabolic rate. Hypothyroidism leads to a slowing down of bodily functions, including metabolism, which can result in weight gain. Weight loss (Choice B) is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism where there is an increase in metabolic rate. Increased appetite (Choice C) is also more typical of hyperthyroidism as the body is burning energy at a faster rate. Diarrhea (Choice D) is not a typical symptom of hypothyroidism; instead, constipation is more often observed due to the slowing down of the digestive system.

4. The nurse is preparing to administer doses of hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL) and digoxin (Lanoxin) to a patient who has heart failure. The patient reports having blurred vision. The nurse notes a heart rate of 60 beats per minute and a blood pressure of 140/78 mm Hg. Which action will the nurse take?

• A. Administer the medications and request an order for serum electrolytes.
• B. Give both medications and evaluate serum blood glucose frequently.
• C. Hold the digoxin and notify the provider.
• D. Hold the hydrochlorothiazide and notify the provider.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the patient is experiencing symptoms of digoxin toxicity, such as blurred vision and bradycardia. When thiazide diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide are taken with digoxin, the patient is at risk of digoxin toxicity due to the potential for thiazides to cause hypokalemia. Therefore, the correct action for the nurse to take is to hold the digoxin and notify the provider. Administering the medications without addressing the potential toxicity could worsen the patient's condition. Requesting serum electrolytes (Choice A) may be necessary but holding the digoxin takes priority. Evaluating serum blood glucose (Choice B) is not relevant to the current situation. Holding hydrochlorothiazide (Choice D) is not the best option as the primary concern is the digoxin toxicity that needs to be addressed promptly.

5. An obese client with emphysema who smoked at least a pack of cigarettes daily is admitted after experiencing a sudden increase in dyspnea and activity intolerance. Oxygen therapy is initiated, and it is determined that the client will be discharged with oxygen. Which information is most important for the nurse to emphasize in the discharge teaching plan?

• A. Methods for weight loss
• B. Guidelines for oxygen use
• C. Approaches to conserve energy
• D. Strategies for smoking cessation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the priority for the nurse to emphasize in the discharge teaching plan is the 'Guidelines for oxygen use.' As the client with emphysema is being discharged with oxygen therapy, it is crucial for the nurse to ensure that the client understands how to use oxygen properly to prevent complications and promote effective management of the condition. While weight loss, conserving energy, and smoking cessation are important aspects of care for this client, in this specific case, ensuring the safe and appropriate use of supplemental oxygen takes precedence to optimize the client's respiratory function and overall well-being.

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