Nursing Elites

1. What assessment data should lead the nurse to suspect that a client has progressed from HIV infection to AIDS?

• A. Enlarged and tender cervical lymph nodes
• B. Presence of low-grade fever and sore throat
• C. Recent history of recurrent pneumonia
• D. CD4 blood cell count of 300

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Recent history of recurrent pneumonia.' Recurrent pneumonia is a hallmark indicator of progression to AIDS in clients with HIV infection. It signifies advanced immunosuppression when the body is unable to fight off infections effectively. Enlarged and tender cervical lymph nodes (Choice A) are more indicative of local infections or inflammation rather than AIDS progression. The presence of a low-grade fever and sore throat (Choice B) may be common in various infections and are not specific to AIDS progression. While a CD4 blood cell count of 300 (Choice D) is below the normal range and indicates immunosuppression, it alone may not be sufficient to suspect progression to AIDS without other supporting indicators like opportunistic infections such as recurrent pneumonia.

2. A client with chronic alcoholism is admitted with a decreased serum magnesium level. Which snack option should the nurse recommend to this client?

• A. Cheddar cheese and crackers
• B. Carrot and celery sticks
• C. Beef bologna sausage slices
• D. Dry roasted almonds

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Dry roasted almonds are the most suitable snack option for a client with chronic alcoholism and a decreased serum magnesium level because they are high in magnesium. Magnesium is essential in addressing the deficiency. Cheddar cheese and crackers (Choice A) do not contain as much magnesium as almonds. Carrot and celery sticks (Choice B) are healthy choices but do not provide a significant amount of magnesium. Beef bologna sausage slices (Choice C) are not a good choice as processed meats are not rich in magnesium.

3. A client taking clopidogrel reports the onset of diarrhea. Which nursing action should the nurse implement first?

• A. Observe the appearance of the stool
• B. Assess the client’s skin turgor
• C. Review the client’s laboratory values
• D. Auscultate the client’s bowel sounds

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Observing the stool’s appearance should be implemented first as it helps determine the nature and possible severity of the diarrhea, which is essential in managing the side effect. Assessing skin turgor (Choice B) is not the priority in this situation. Reviewing laboratory values (Choice C) can provide additional information but is not the initial step. Auscultating bowel sounds (Choice D) is not the priority when the client is experiencing diarrhea.

4. Which instruction is most important for the client who receives a new prescription for risedronate sodium to treat osteoporosis?

• A. Remain upright for 30 minutes after taking the medication
• B. Increase intake of foods rich in vitamin D
• C. Begin a low-impact exercise routine
• D. Take the medication with a full glass of water

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most important instruction for a client receiving risedronate sodium to treat osteoporosis is to remain upright for 30 minutes after taking the medication. Risedronate sodium can cause esophageal irritation, and staying upright helps prevent this side effect. While increasing vitamin D intake, starting a low-impact exercise routine, and taking the medication with a full glass of water are all beneficial for managing osteoporosis, the immediate need is to prevent esophageal irritation caused by risedronate sodium.

5. A client has a blood glucose level of 70 mg/dl and reports feeling shaky and weak. What is the best initial action by the nurse?

• A. Obtain a fingerstick glucose reading
• B. Administer 15 grams of a fast-acting carbohydrate
• C. Perform a quick assessment of the client’s neuro status
• D. Provide a glass of milk and monitor the client’s symptoms

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Administering 15 grams of a fast-acting carbohydrate is the best initial action to address hypoglycemia symptoms promptly by raising blood glucose levels. This intervention is crucial to prevent further deterioration in the client's condition. Obtaining a fingerstick glucose reading is important but may delay treatment. Performing a quick assessment of the client's neuro status is secondary to addressing the immediate low blood glucose levels. Providing a glass of milk is not the recommended first-line treatment for hypoglycemia; fast-acting carbohydrates are preferred to rapidly increase blood sugar levels.

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