Nursing Elites

1. When using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI), which step is most important for ensuring effective medication delivery?

• A. Exhale completely before using the inhaler
• B. Inhale quickly while pressing down on the inhaler
• C. Shake the inhaler for 10 seconds before use
• D. Hold breath for 5 seconds after inhaling

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct step to ensure effective medication delivery when using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) is to exhale completely before using the inhaler. This action helps create more space in the lungs for the medication to reach deeply into the airways. Inhaling quickly while pressing down on the inhaler (Choice B) may cause the medication to impact the throat rather than reaching the lungs. Shaking the inhaler for 10 seconds before use (Choice C) is important to mix the medication but not the most crucial step for effective delivery. While holding the breath for 5 seconds after inhaling (Choice D) can help the medication stay in the lungs momentarily, exhaling completely before inhalation is more critical for optimal drug deposition.

2. A client with chronic kidney disease is being evaluated for dialysis. Which laboratory value would be most concerning to the nurse?

• A. Hemoglobin 9.5 g/dL
• B. Potassium 6.2 mEq/L
• C. Creatinine 3.5 mg/dL
• D. BUN 50 mg/dL

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Potassium 6.2 mEq/L. In chronic kidney disease, the kidneys struggle to regulate potassium levels, leading to hyperkalemia. A potassium level of 6.2 mEq/L is dangerously high and can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Hemoglobin of 9.5 g/dL may indicate anemia, which is common in chronic kidney disease but is not immediately life-threatening. Creatinine and BUN levels are markers of kidney function; although elevated levels indicate kidney impairment, they are not acutely life-threatening like severe hyperkalemia.

3. A client with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed methotrexate. What is the primary action of this medication?

• A. Increases joint lubrication
• B. Reduces inflammation by suppressing the immune system
• C. Enhances bone density
• D. Stimulates cartilage regeneration

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Methotrexate is an immunosuppressant that works by suppressing the immune system, thereby reducing inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. Methotrexate does not directly increase joint lubrication (Choice A) as its primary action is on the immune system. Choices C and D are incorrect since methotrexate does not enhance bone density or stimulate cartilage regeneration. It is crucial for healthcare providers to understand the mechanism of action of medications to provide safe and effective care to patients.

4. A client presents to the emergency department with symptoms of a myocardial infarction. What should the nurse administer immediately under doctor's orders?

• A. Aspirin to prevent further blood clotting
• B. High-flow oxygen
• C. Intravenous fluids
• D. Nitroglycerin

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Aspirin to prevent further blood clotting. Administering aspirin is crucial in the immediate management of a myocardial infarction as it helps prevent further blood clot formation, which is a key component in the treatment and prevention of myocardial infarction. Oxygen therapy (Choice B) is often provided, but aspirin takes precedence due to its role in reducing clot formation. Intravenous fluids (Choice C) may be needed but are not the immediate priority in this situation. Nitroglycerin (Choice D) is commonly used for chest pain relief in myocardial infarction but is not the first medication to be administered in this scenario.

5. When inserting an indwelling urinary catheter in a female client and urine flows into the tubing, what is the next action?

• A. Document the color and clarity of the urine
• B. Insert the catheter an additional inch
• C. Ask the client to breathe deeply and slowly exhale
• D. Inflate the balloon with 5 mL of sterile water

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When urine flows into the tubing during the insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter, it confirms proper catheter placement. The next step should be to inflate the balloon with the specified amount of sterile water to secure the catheter in place. Documenting the color and clarity of the urine (choice A) is important for assessment but not the immediate next action. Inserting the catheter further (choice B) without securing it could cause harm. Asking the client to breathe deeply (choice C) is not relevant to this situation.

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