Nursing Elites

1. For which patient diagnosis would a prescription for nifedipine be least appropriate?

• A. Angina Pectoris
• B. Essential HTN
• C. Atrial Fibrillation
• D. Vasospastic Angina

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Nifedipine primarily acts as a calcium channel blocker, exerting its effects on vascular smooth muscle. It is not effective for treating dysrhythmias like Atrial Fibrillation, which involve abnormalities in the heart's electrical system. Nifedipine is commonly prescribed for conditions such as angina pectoris, essential hypertension, and vasospastic angina due to its vasodilatory and anti-anginal properties. Choices A, B, and D are more appropriate as nifedipine can help in managing angina pectoris, hypertension, and vasospastic angina by reducing myocardial oxygen demand and dilating coronary arteries.

2. Which statement should the nurse include in the teaching plan for a patient being started on levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet) for newly diagnosed Parkinson�s disease?

• A. Take medication on a full stomach
• B. Change positions slowly
• C. The drug may cause the urine to be very dilute
• D. Carbidopa has many adverse effects

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Postural hypotension is common early in treatment, so the patient should be instructed to change positions slowly. Administration with meals should be avoided, if possible, because food delays the absorption of the levodopa component. If the patient is experiencing side effects of nausea and vomiting, administration with food may be considered. The levodopa component may darken urine. Carbidopa has no adverse effects of its own.

3. When planning care for a pediatric client diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, what is the priority nursing diagnosis?

• A. Impaired Gas Exchange
• B. Risk for Infection
• C. Anxiety (parental)
• D. Acute Pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing diagnosis when caring for a pediatric client with bacterial meningitis is 'Impaired Gas Exchange.' This diagnosis takes precedence due to the potential for respiratory complications associated with the condition. Bacterial meningitis can lead to increased intracranial pressure, compromising the child's ability to ventilate adequately. Therefore, monitoring and addressing any signs of respiratory distress are crucial in the care of these patients.

4. During an assessment, an infant is suspected to have intussusception. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Currant jelly stools
• B. Projectile vomiting
• C. Scaphoid abdomen
• D. Frequent stools

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Intussusception is a condition where one segment of the intestine telescopes into another, causing obstruction. The classic presentation includes currant jelly stools, which are a mixture of blood and mucus due to the sloughing of the intestinal mucosa. This finding is a result of the compromised blood supply to the affected area and is a key characteristic associated with intussusception.

5. A healthcare provider is assessing an infant who has hydrocephalus and is 6 hours postoperative following placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Which of the following findings should the provider report to the healthcare provider?

• A. Decreased urine output
• B. Temperature of 37.5 degrees C (99.5 degrees F)
• C. Heart rate 130/min
• D. Leakage of cerebrospinal fluid

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The provider should report the leakage of cerebrospinal fluid to the healthcare provider as it may indicate shunt malfunction or infection, requiring immediate attention to prevent complications. Decreased urine output, a temperature of 37.5 degrees C, and a heart rate of 130/min are common postoperative findings and may not be directly related to shunt function. While these findings should still be monitored, they do not require immediate reporting like cerebrospinal fluid leakage.

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