Nursing Elites

1. An agitated, confused female client arrives in the emergency department. Her history includes type 1 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and angina pectoris. Assessment reveals pallor, diaphoresis, headache, and intense hunger. A stat blood glucose sample measures 42 mg/dl, and the client is treated for an acute hypoglycemic reaction. After recovery, the nurse teaches the client to treat hypoglycemia by ingesting:

• A. 2 to 5 g of a simple carbohydrate.
• B. 10 to 15 g of a simple carbohydrate.
• C. 18 to 20 g of a simple carbohydrate.
• D. 25 to 30 g of a simple carbohydrate.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 10 to 15 g of a simple carbohydrate. In the treatment of hypoglycemia, it is important to administer a specific amount of simple carbohydrates to raise blood glucose levels effectively without causing hyperglycemia. 10 to 15 g of simple carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets, fruit juice, or regular soft drinks, is recommended to rapidly increase blood sugar levels in clients experiencing hypoglycemia. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they either provide too little or too much glucose, which may not effectively treat the hypoglycemic episode or may lead to rebound hyperglycemia.

2. A nurse manager is reviewing data from the unit. More than 50% of new nurses hired left within 1 year of being hired. Which of the following implementations should the nurse manager consider to improve retention of newly hired nurses?

• A. Increase the length of time new hires spend in training.
• B. Conduct a performance review at 3, 6, and 9 months to review the new nurse’s weaknesses.
• C. Stress the importance of continuity of care to new hires.
• D. Build the manager’s own leadership skills through building relationships with staff members.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: To improve retention of newly hired nurses, the nurse manager should focus on building their own leadership skills and relationships with staff members. By creating a supportive environment and demonstrating effective leadership, the manager can positively impact staff retention. Options A, B, and C do not directly address the core issue of creating a supportive work environment and effective leadership, which are crucial for retaining newly hired nurses.

3. Albert refuses his bedtime snack. This should alert the healthcare provider to assess for:

• A. Elevated serum bicarbonate and decreased blood pH.
• B. Signs of hypoglycemia earlier than expected.
• C. Symptoms of hyperglycemia due to NPH insulin peak time.
• D. Presence of sugar in the urine.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a patient like Albert refuses his bedtime snack, it can lead to hypoglycemia, especially if they are on medication such as insulin. Hypoglycemia can occur earlier than expected due to the lack of carbohydrate intake before bedtime. This situation warrants the healthcare provider to monitor for signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia. Choice A is incorrect because the given scenario is more indicative of hypoglycemia than metabolic alkalosis. Choice C is incorrect as NPH insulin peak time is not directly related to skipping a bedtime snack. Choice D is incorrect as sugar in the urine typically indicates hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia.

4. The client with hyperparathyroidism is being taught about dietary management. Which of the following foods should the client avoid?

• A. Bananas
• B. Spinach
• C. Milk
• D. Processed meats

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Clients with hyperparathyroidism should avoid high-calcium foods like milk because they already have elevated calcium levels. Bananas and spinach are not high in calcium and can be included in the diet. Processed meats are not specifically contraindicated in hyperparathyroidism, so they are not the correct answer.

5. The healthcare provider is assessing a client with Addison's disease. Which of the following symptoms is consistent with this condition?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. Hyperpigmentation
• D. Weight gain

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Hyperpigmentation is a characteristic symptom of Addison's disease. In Addison's disease, there is a decrease in cortisol production, leading to an increase in adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) secretion by the pituitary gland. Excess ACTH can stimulate melanocytes, resulting in hyperpigmentation. Choices A, B, and D are not typically associated with Addison's disease. Hypertension is more commonly associated with conditions involving excess cortisol production, such as Cushing's syndrome. Hyperglycemia may occur in diabetes mellitus but is not a hallmark of Addison's disease. Weight loss, rather than weight gain, is a common symptom of Addison's disease due to decreased cortisol levels.

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