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. High blood pressure is defined as systolic and diastolic measurements greater than or equal to:

• A. 140 mm Hg and 90 mm Hg, respectively
• B. 150 mm Hg and 80 mm Hg, respectively
• C. 160 mm Hg and 110 mm Hg, respectively
• D. 180 mm Hg and 120 mm Hg, respectively

Correct answer: A

Rationale: High blood pressure, or hypertension, is typically defined as having a systolic pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher and/or a diastolic pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Choice B is incorrect because it suggests a higher systolic measurement than the standard definition. Choice C is incorrect as it provides an even higher systolic measurement and a much higher diastolic measurement. Choice D is also incorrect as it suggests extremely elevated blood pressure values, well above the typical definition of hypertension.

3. Amy is a 68-year-old patient who has rheumatoid arthritis affecting her hands and feet. Which substance has been shown to reduce joint tenderness and improve mobility in some people with this type of arthritis?

• A. Alfalfa Tea
• B. Cod Liver Oil
• C. Lecithin
• D. Fish Oil

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Fish oil has been identified as a substance that can help reduce joint tenderness and improve mobility in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, as it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. On the other hand, while Alfalfa Tea, Cod Liver Oil, and Lecithin have various health benefits, there isn't substantial evidence to suggest that they can improve conditions associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

4. While on Bryant’s traction, which of these observations of Graciela and her traction apparatus would indicate a decrease in the effectiveness of her traction?

• A. Graciela’s buttocks are resting on the bed.
• B. The traction weights are hanging 10 inches above the floor.
• C. Graciela’s legs are suspended at a 90 degree angle to her trunk.
• D. The traction ropes move freely through the pulley.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Understanding the underlying pathology and therapeutic techniques ensures that nursing care is not only reactive but also preventative, reducing the risk of complications.

5. Muscle weakness due to wasting would most likely be evaluated by which test?

• A. recall of food intake
• B. skinfold thickness
• C. handgrip strength
• D. red blood cell levels

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Handgrip strength is a reliable test to assess muscle function and detect muscle weakness due to wasting. It is often used to identify conditions like sarcopenia in clinical settings. Options A, B, and D are not suitable for evaluating muscle weakness. Food intake recall does not directly measure muscle function, skinfold thickness assesses body fat but not muscle strength, and red blood cell levels are unrelated to muscle wasting.

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