Nursing Elites

1. What is the most appropriate nursing consideration for a patient who is prescribed verapamil and digoxin?

• A. Restrict intake of oral fluids and high-fiber foods
• B. Take an apical pulse for 30 seconds before administration
• C. Notify the healthcare provider of nausea, vomiting, and visual changes
• D. Hold the medications if the heart rate is greater than 110 bpm

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a patient is prescribed verapamil and digoxin, it is crucial to monitor for signs of digoxin toxicity due to the potential interaction between these medications. Verapamil can elevate digoxin blood serum levels, increasing the risk of toxicity. Symptoms of digoxin toxicity include nausea, vomiting, and visual changes. Therefore, the most appropriate nursing consideration is to notify the healthcare provider of these symptoms. Restricting intake of oral fluids and high-fiber foods is not a specific consideration related to this medication combination. Before administering digoxin, it is essential to take an apical pulse for a full minute, not just 30 seconds, to ensure accuracy. Additionally, holding the medications if the heart rate exceeds 110 bpm is not a typical response to the combination of verapamil and digoxin, which can cause bradycardia rather than tachycardia.

2. A parent of a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is being taught by a nurse. Which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Administer methylphenidate at bedtime.
• B. Increase stimuli in the child's environment.
• C. Administer an extra dose of medication if the child is overactive.
• D. Maintain a consistent bedtime routine.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine is essential for children with ADHD as it helps in managing their symptoms effectively. Consistency in bedtime routines aids in regulating the child's sleep patterns, promoting better rest, and ultimately improving their behavior and focus during the day.

3. A child is being cared for by a nurse and has rheumatic fever. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

• A. Administer aspirin to the child as prescribed based on the healthcare provider's instructions.
• B. Encourage adequate fluid intake for the child.
• C. Elevate the child's joints and provide warm compresses.
• D. Monitor the child's heart rate for dysrhythmias.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rheumatic fever can lead to cardiac complications, such as dysrhythmias. Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to monitor the child's heart rate closely for any signs of dysrhythmias. This will help in early identification and prompt management of potential cardiac issues associated with rheumatic fever. Choices A, B, and C are not the priority actions in this scenario. While aspirin may be used in the treatment of rheumatic fever, monitoring for cardiac complications takes precedence. Encouraging fluid intake and providing warm compresses are helpful interventions but do not directly address the cardiac risks associated with rheumatic fever.

4. The nurse is reviewing the prescriber�s orders and notes that omeprazole has been order for a patient admitted with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The nurse should be concerned if this medication is combined with which medication noted on the patient�s record.

• A. Aspirin 81mg daily
• B. Clopidogrel (Plavix) 75mg daily
• C. Heparin 5000 units subQ q12hrs
• D. Metoprolol 50mg q8hrs

Correct answer: B

Rationale: For patients who lack risk factors for GI bleeding, combined use of clopidogrel with a PPI, may reduce the effects of clopidogrel without offering any real benefits and thus should be avoided.

5. An 80-year-old patient with a history of renal insufficiency was recently started on cimetidine. Which assessment finding indicates that the patient may be experiencing an adverse effect of the medication?

• A. Pain with urination
• B. New onset disorientation to time and place
• C. HR changes from a baseline of 70-80bpm to 110-120bpm
• D. #ERROR!

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: New onset disorientation to time and place. Cimetidine can cause adverse effects on the CNS system, especially in elderly patients with renal or hepatic impairment. This may manifest as confusion, hallucinations, lethargy, restlessness, or seizures. Pain with urination (choice A) is not typically associated with cimetidine use, and HR changes (choice C) are more likely related to other factors. Choice D is not a valid option.

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