Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a client with hyperthyroidism. Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention?

• A. Heart rate of 100 beats per minute.
• B. Blood pressure of 150/90 mm Hg.
• C. Respiratory rate of 24 breaths per minute.
• D. Weight loss of 5 pounds in one week.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Weight loss of 5 pounds in one week in a client with hyperthyroidism is concerning as it may indicate severe hypermetabolism, leading to potential complications such as cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and other metabolic disturbances. Rapid weight loss in hyperthyroidism indicates an accelerated metabolic rate and increased energy expenditure, which can be detrimental to the client's health. The other assessment findings (heart rate of 100 beats per minute, blood pressure of 150/90 mm Hg, respiratory rate of 24 breaths per minute) are commonly seen in clients with hyperthyroidism and may not necessarily require immediate intervention unless they are significantly outside the normal range or causing distress to the client.

2. The nurse is caring for a client with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which laboratory result requires immediate intervention?

• A. Blood glucose of 250 mg/dL.
• B. Serum potassium of 3.5 mEq/L.
• C. Serum sodium of 135 mEq/L.
• D. Arterial blood pH of 7.30.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: An arterial blood pH of 7.30 indicates the client is in acidosis, which is a life-threatening condition in DKA. Immediate intervention is required to correct the acidosis and prevent further complications such as organ failure or coma. Blood glucose of 250 mg/dL is elevated but not an immediate threat to life in comparison to acidosis. Serum potassium of 3.5 mEq/L and serum sodium of 135 mEq/L are within normal ranges and do not warrant immediate intervention in the context of DKA.

3. A 9-year-old is hospitalized for neutropenia and is placed in reverse isolation. The child asks the nurse, 'Why do you have to wear a gown and mask when you are in my room?' How should the nurse respond?

• A. To protect myself from your germs.
• B. To protect you because you can get an infection very easily.
• C. Until your white blood cell count increases.
• D. To keep others from getting your infection.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Reverse isolation precautions protect the client from exposure to microorganisms from others.

4. A public health nurse is planning a vaccination clinic for a rural community. Which vaccine should the nurse prioritize for adults in this area?

• A. hepatitis A
• B. influenza
• C. varicella
• D. measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'B: influenza.' Influenza vaccination is crucial for adults, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare may be limited. Influenza can cause serious illness and complications, and vaccination helps protect individuals and prevent the spread of the virus. While vaccines for hepatitis A, varicella, and measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) are important, prioritizing influenza vaccination in this scenario is essential due to its seasonal prevalence and potential impact on public health. Hepatitis A and varicella vaccines are also important but may not be as immediately critical for this population. MMR vaccine is typically administered in childhood, so it is not the priority for adults in this scenario.

5. A client with a history of hypertension is prescribed enalapril (Vasotec). Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I will monitor my blood pressure regularly.
• B. I will report any signs of infection to my healthcare provider.
• C. I will avoid using salt substitutes.
• D. I will increase my intake of potassium-rich foods.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Increasing potassium intake can lead to hyperkalemia, especially in clients taking ACE inhibitors like enalapril. Hyperkalemia is a potential side effect of ACE inhibitors and can be exacerbated by consuming potassium-rich foods. Monitoring blood pressure regularly (A) is important when taking antihypertensive medications. Reporting signs of infection (B) is crucial as ACE inhibitors can lower the immune response. Avoiding salt substitutes (C) is necessary because they may contain potassium chloride, leading to increased potassium levels, which can be harmful in combination with ACE inhibitors.

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