serum vancomycin levels are taken to measure which of the following

NCLEX-PN

NCLEX PN Test Bank

1. Why is monitoring Serum Vancomycin levels important?

A. to assess renal function
B. to determine therapeutic range
C. to measure trough levels
D. to evaluate antibiotic resistance

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Monitoring Serum Vancomycin levels is essential to determine the drug's therapeutic range, ensuring optimal effectiveness while avoiding toxicity. Peak levels indicate the drug's highest concentration, while trough levels represent the lowest concentration before the next dose. Assessing renal function is typically done using creatinine, BUN, or creatinine clearance tests, not Serum Vancomycin levels. Evaluating antibiotic resistance involves sensitivity testing, not monitoring Vancomycin levels. Therefore, the correct answer is to determine the therapeutic range.

2. Which action exemplifies the use of evidence-based practice in the delivery of client care?

A. Advising a client to agree to the treatment recommended by their healthcare provider
B. Taking a rectal temperature from a client for whom bleeding precautions have been instituted
C. Donning sterile gloves to change an abdominal wound dressing
D. Encouraging a client to take an herbal substance to treat their insomnia

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Evidence-based practice is an approach to client care where the nurse integrates the client’s preferences, clinical expertise, and the best research evidence to deliver quality care. Donning sterile gloves to change an abdominal wound dressing exemplifies evidence-based practice as it prevents the entrance of harmful bacteria into the wound, following best practice guidelines. The other options do not align with evidence-based practice. Advising a client to agree to a treatment does not involve integrating research evidence. Taking herbal substances may not be supported by strong research evidence and can pose risks. Additionally, rectal temperature-taking in a client with bleeding precautions can increase the risk of injury to the rectal mucosa, not aligning with best practices in care delivery.

3. The client is going for surgery and mentions their religious objection to blood transfusions. Which of the following responses would be most appropriate?

A. "I can ask pastoral care to send someone to speak with you about this concern since it would not be safe to refuse a blood transfusion."?
B. "I understand, and you have the right to refuse blood transfusions."?
C. "While I understand, if there is excessive bleeding during surgery, we may need to transfuse blood to stabilize you."?
D. "I have received a blood transfusion before, and I do not think you understand the risks versus the benefits of refusing this."?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate response is, '"I understand, and you have the right to refuse blood transfusions."? This answer shows respect for the client's autonomy and religious beliefs. It is crucial for healthcare providers to acknowledge and support a patient's decision-making regarding their care, even if it conflicts with medical advice. Option A is not ideal as it might seem dismissive of the client's beliefs. Option C introduces a potential negative outcome of refusing a blood transfusion, which could induce fear or coercion. Option D is inappropriate because it implies judgment and does not uphold the client's autonomy.

4. What are the hazards of improper splinting?

A. Aggravation of a bone or joint injury
B. Reduced distal circulation
C. Delay in transporting a client with a life-threatening injury
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Hazards of improper splinting can lead to the aggravation of a bone or joint injury, reduced distal circulation, and delay in transporting a client with a life-threatening injury. Choosing 'All of the above' (Option D) is the correct answer as it encompasses all the hazards mentioned. Option A is incorrect because it only addresses one aspect of the hazards. Option B is incorrect as it does not cover all the hazards associated with improper splinting. Option C is incorrect as it focuses on only one hazard and does not account for the others.

5. A client with an ileus is placed on intestinal tube suction. Which of the following electrolytes is lost with intestinal suction?

A. calcium
B. magnesium
C. potassium
D. sodium chloride

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a client with an ileus is placed on intestinal tube suction, the primary electrolyte lost is sodium chloride. Duodenal intestinal fluid contains potassium (K+), sodium (Na+), and bicarbonate. Suctioning is done to remove excess fluids, leading to a decrease in the client's sodium chloride levels. Therefore, options A, B, and C are incorrect as calcium, magnesium, and potassium are not the primary electrolytes lost during intestinal suction in a client with an ileus.