Nursing Elites

1. The principal cation in plasma and interstitial fluid is:

• A. Sodium
• B. Potassium
• C. Calcium
• D. Magnesium

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The principal cation in plasma and interstitial fluid is sodium. Sodium plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance and is the primary cation in extracellular fluids like plasma and interstitial fluid. Potassium is the primary cation within cells, not in extracellular fluids, making it an incorrect choice. Calcium and magnesium are essential minerals but are not the principal cations in plasma and interstitial fluid, so they are also incorrect choices.

2. What is the conversion of genetic information in RNA into a sequence of amino acids?

• A. translation
• B. transcription
• C.
• D.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'translation.' Translation is the process where the genetic information in messenger RNA (mRNA) is decoded to produce a specific sequence of amino acids, forming a protein. This process occurs at ribosomes within the cell. Option B, 'transcription,' is incorrect as transcription is the process of synthesizing mRNA from a DNA template. Options C and D are irrelevant as they are not related to the conversion of genetic information into amino acids.

3. A nurse is initiating continuous enteral feedings for a client who has a new gastrostomy tube. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Measure the client’s gastric residual every 12 hours.
• B. Obtain the client’s electrolyte levels every 4 hours.
• C. Keep the client’s head elevated at 15° during feedings.
• D. Flush the client’s tube with 30 mL of water every 4 hours.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Flushing the client’s tube with 30 mL of water every 4 hours is essential to maintain tube patency and prevent blockages. This action helps ensure the continuous flow of enteral feedings without obstruction. Measuring the client’s gastric residual every 12 hours (Choice A) is important but not the priority when initiating enteral feedings. Obtaining the client’s electrolyte levels every 4 hours (Choice B) is unnecessary and not directly related to tube feeding initiation. Keeping the client’s head elevated at 15° during feedings (Choice C) is a good practice to prevent aspiration, but tube flushing is more crucial to prevent tube occlusion.

4. A nurse is caring for a client who is to receive a mechanically altered diet. Which of the following client food choices necessitates intervention by the nurse?

• A. Scrambled eggs
• B. Cottage cheese
• C. Piece of wheat toast
• D. Sliced banana

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Sliced banana.' A mechanically altered diet is designed for clients who have difficulty chewing or swallowing. Sliced bananas, due to their texture and potential choking hazard for clients with swallowing difficulties, would necessitate intervention by the nurse. Scrambled eggs, cottage cheese, and a piece of wheat toast are softer and safer options for clients on a mechanically altered diet, making them appropriate choices.

5. Which type of drug is most likely to cause unintentional weight gain?

• A. Antiemetics
• B. Sedatives
• C. Corticosteroids
• D. Antibiotics

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Corticosteroids are most likely to cause unintentional weight gain. They influence the metabolism and fat distribution in the body, leading to weight gain. On the other hand, antiemetics are drugs that are used to prevent nausea and vomiting, and they do not typically cause weight gain. Sedatives, while they can cause drowsiness and may lead to less physical activity, are not directly associated with weight gain. Lastly, antibiotics are used to fight bacteria and while they can cause temporary digestive issues, they do not typically result in long-term weight gain.

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