Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a postthyroidectomy patient at risk for hypocalcemia. What action should the nurse take when assessing for hypocalcemia?

• A. Monitor laboratory values daily for an elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone.
• B. Observe for swelling of the neck, tracheal deviation, and severe pain.
• C. Evaluate the quality of the patient's voice postoperatively, noting any drastic changes.
• D. Observe for muscle twitching and numbness or tingling of the lips, fingers, and toes.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Muscle twitching and numbness or tingling of the lips, fingers, and toes are signs of hyperirritability of the nervous system due to hypocalcemia. The other options describe complications the nurse should also be observing for; however, tetany and neurologic alterations are primary indications of hypocalcemia. Monitoring for an elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (choice A) is not relevant in assessing for hypocalcemia. Observing for swelling of the neck, tracheal deviation, and severe pain (choice B) are more related to airway compromise. Evaluating the quality of the patient's voice postoperatively (choice C) is important but not a primary sign of hypocalcemia.

2. You are caring for a patient admitted with a diagnosis of acute kidney injury. When you review your patients most recent laboratory reports, you note that the patients magnesium levels are high. You should prioritize assessment for which of the followin

• A. Diminished deep tendon reflexes
• B. Tachycardia
• C. Cool, clammy skin
• D. Acute flank pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale:

3. . A medical nurse educator is reviewing a patients recent episode of metabolic acidosis with members of the nursing staff. What should the educator describe about the role of the kidneys in metabolic acidosis?

• A. The kidneys retain hydrogen ions and excrete bicarbonate ions to help restore balance.
• B. The kidneys excrete hydrogen ions and conserve bicarbonate ions to help restore balance
• C. The kidneys react rapidly to compensate for imbalances in the body
• D. The kidneys regulate the bicarbonate level in the intracellular fluid.

Correct answer: B

Rationale:

4. A nurse is caring for a client who has the following laboratory results: potassium 3.4 mEq/L, magnesium 1.8 mEq/L, calcium 8.5 mEq/L, sodium 144 mEq/L. Which assessment should the nurse complete first?

• A. Depth of respirations
• B. Bowel sounds
• C. Grip strength
• D. Electrocardiography

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Depth of respirations.' In a client with electrolyte imbalances like low potassium (hypokalemia) and low magnesium (hypomagnesemia), respiratory changes, such as shallow respirations or respiratory muscle weakness, can occur and lead to respiratory compromise. Assessing the depth of respirations is crucial to evaluate respiratory function in this client. Bowel sounds, grip strength, and electrocardiography are also important assessments in different situations, but in this case, respiratory assessment takes priority due to the potential impact of electrolyte imbalances on breathing.

5. 1.A nurse prepares to insert a peripheral venous catheter in an older adult client. Which action should the nurse take to protect the clients skin during this procedure?

• A. Lower the extremity below the level of the heart.
• B. Apply warm compresses to the extremity.
• C. Tap the skin lightly and avoid slapping.
• D. Place a washcloth between the skin and tourniquet

Correct answer: D

Rationale:

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