Nursing Elites

1. After undergoing a subtotal thyroidectomy, a female client develops hypothyroidism. Dr. Smith prescribes levothyroxine (Levothroid), 25 mcg P.O. daily. For which condition is levothyroxine the preferred agent?

• A. Primary hypothyroidism
• B. Graves' disease
• C. Thyrotoxicosis
• D. Euthyroidism

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Levothyroxine is the preferred agent for primary hypothyroidism because it provides the necessary replacement of thyroid hormone in patients with deficient thyroid function. Choice B, Graves' disease, is an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism and is typically treated with antithyroid medications or radioactive iodine. Choice C, thyrotoxicosis, refers to the clinical state resulting from excessive thyroid hormone action and is not typically treated with levothyroxine. Choice D, euthyroidism, describes a normal thyroid function and would not require treatment with levothyroxine.

2. Nurse Ruth is assessing a client after a thyroidectomy. The assessment reveals muscle twitching and tingling, along with numbness in the fingers, toes, and mouth area. The nurse should suspect which complication?

• A. Tetany
• B. Hemorrhage
• C. Thyroid storm
• D. Laryngeal nerve damage

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Tetany.' Tetany is characterized by muscle twitching, tingling, and numbness, which are indicative of hypocalcemia. After a thyroidectomy, accidental removal or damage to the parathyroid glands can lead to decreased calcium levels, resulting in tetany. Choice B, 'Hemorrhage,' is incorrect as it typically presents with symptoms such as sudden swelling, increased pain, or drop in blood pressure. Choice C, 'Thyroid storm,' is incorrect as it involves a sudden exacerbation of hyperthyroidism, leading to symptoms like fever, tachycardia, and confusion. Choice D, 'Laryngeal nerve damage,' is incorrect as it would manifest with voice changes, difficulty swallowing, or respiratory distress, not the symptoms described in the scenario.

3. A client with hyperparathyroidism is being assessed. Which of the following symptoms is the nurse likely to find?

• A. Tetany
• B. Hypocalcemia
• C. Bone pain
• D. Hypotension

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In hyperparathyroidism, there is excessive production of parathyroid hormone, leading to increased calcium resorption from the bones. This process causes bone pain, making choice C the correct answer. Tetany (choice A) is associated with hypocalcemia, not hyperparathyroidism. Hypocalcemia (choice B) is the opposite condition of hyperparathyroidism, where blood calcium levels are elevated. Hypotension (choice D) is not a typical symptom of hyperparathyroidism.

4. A new unit manager works hard to get to know each of the staff members on the unit and determine what each staff member needs in order to effectively do their job. What type of management best describes this manager?

• A. Servant leader-style manager
• B. Networking manager
• C. Coaching manager
• D. Monitoring manager

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A Servant leader-style manager focuses on understanding and meeting the needs of staff members to help them grow and perform at their best. This type of manager prioritizes serving the team and facilitating their development. Networking managers focus on building connections and relationships outside the team. Coaching managers provide guidance, support, and feedback to help employees improve. Monitoring managers primarily oversee and supervise tasks without a strong emphasis on individual needs or growth.

5. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor in a client with Cushing's syndrome?

• A. Blood glucose levels
• B. Serum calcium levels
• C. Serum potassium levels
• D. Serum sodium levels

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Blood glucose levels. In Cushing's syndrome, there is excess cortisol in the body which leads to increased blood glucose levels due to its effect on glucose metabolism. Elevated blood glucose levels are a common finding in individuals with Cushing's syndrome. Monitoring blood glucose levels is crucial as it helps in assessing and managing hyperglycemia in these patients. Choice B, serum calcium levels, is not typically a priority in monitoring for Cushing's syndrome. While abnormalities in calcium levels can occur in some endocrine disorders, hypercalcemia is not a hallmark of Cushing's syndrome. Choice C, serum potassium levels, and Choice D, serum sodium levels, are not directly associated with Cushing's syndrome. While electrolyte imbalances can occur in various conditions, they are not specifically linked to Cushing's syndrome as blood glucose levels are.

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