Nursing Elites

1. What assessment technique should the nurse use to monitor a client for a common untoward effect of phenytoin (Dilantin)?

• A. Bladder palpation
• B. Inspection of the mouth
• C. Blood glucose monitoring
• D. Auscultation of breath sounds

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Inspection of the mouth. This assessment technique is crucial for monitoring gingival hyperplasia, a common side effect of phenytoin. Bladder palpation (choice A) is not relevant to monitoring for phenytoin's side effects. Blood glucose monitoring (choice C) is important for clients with diabetes but is not specifically related to phenytoin. Auscultation of breath sounds (choice D) is more relevant for assessing respiratory conditions, not side effects of phenytoin.

2. A client who has had three spontaneous abortions is requesting information about possible causes. The nurse's response should be based on which information?

• A. Chromosomal abnormalities are the most common cause of early spontaneous abortions
• B. Incompetent cervix can cause spontaneous abortions
• C. An infection can cause spontaneous abortions
• D. Nutritional deficiencies are the most common cause of early spontaneous abortions

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Chromosomal abnormalities are the most common cause of early spontaneous abortions. Spontaneous abortions, also known as miscarriages, often occur due to chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. These abnormalities are a common cause of early pregnancy loss. Choice B is incorrect because an incompetent cervix typically leads to late miscarriages, not early spontaneous abortions. Choice C is incorrect as while infections can be a cause of spontaneous abortions, they are not the most common cause. Choice D is incorrect as nutritional deficiencies are not the most common cause of early spontaneous abortions.

3. A nurse is assessing the learning needs of a client who is diagnosed with Addison's disease. Which statement indicates that the client needs further teaching?

• A. I should take my medications daily to replace necessary hormones
• B. I need to eat a diet high in protein and carbohydrates
• C. I should avoid drinking fluids with caffeine
• D. I should notify my healthcare provider if I start feeling dizzy

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. A diet high in protein and carbohydrates is not specifically required for Addison's disease. The focus should be on maintaining a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and adequate protein sources. Choice A is correct as adherence to medication therapy is crucial in managing Addison's disease. Choice C is correct as caffeine can exacerbate symptoms of Addison's disease. Choice D is correct as dizziness can be a sign of adrenal crisis in Addison's disease, and prompt notification of healthcare providers is essential.

4. A 59-year-old male client is brought to the emergency room where he is assessed to have a Glasgow Coma Scale of 3. Based on this assessment, how should the nurse characterize the client's condition?

• A. The client is experiencing increased intracranial pressure
• B. He has a good prognosis for recovery
• C. This client is conscious, but is not oriented to time and place
• D. He is in a coma, and has a very poor prognosis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A Glasgow Coma Scale of 3 indicates severe neurological impairment, suggesting a deep coma or even impending death. This client's condition is critical, and he has a very poor prognosis. Choice A is incorrect because a GCS of 3 does not directly indicate increased intracranial pressure. Choice B is incorrect as a GCS of 3 signifies a grave neurological status. Choice C is incorrect as a GCS of 3 represents a state of unconsciousness rather than being conscious but disoriented.

5. A primigravida at term comes to the prenatal clinic and tells the nurse that she is having contractions every 5 min. The nurse monitors the client for one hour, using an external fetal monitor, and determines that the client’s contractions are 7 to 15 minutes apart, lasting 20 to 30 seconds, with mild intensity by palpation. What action should the nurse take?

• A. Tell the client to go directly to the hospital for admission to labor and delivery for active labor
• B. Send the client home and instruct her to call the clinic when her contractions occur 5 minutes apart for one hour
• C. Tell the client to check into the hospital within the next hour for evaluation of possible urinary tract infection
• D. Advise the client to rest and hydrate, then return if contractions become more regular

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The client should be instructed to call when contractions are 5 minutes apart for an hour to ensure she is in active labor before going to the hospital.

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