Nursing Elites

1. What physiologic role does calcium play in the body?

• A. Blood clotting, transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction and relaxation
• B. Calcium homeostasis, structural integrity of heart muscle
• C. No known metabolic function, caries-preventing properties
• D. ATP energy release; metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, proteins; regulates acid-base balance.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Blood clotting, transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction and relaxation.' Calcium plays a crucial role in various physiological functions such as blood clotting, transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction and relaxation, membrane permeability, and activation of certain enzymes. Choice B is incorrect because while calcium is involved in calcium homeostasis, it is not the only role it plays in the body. Choice C is incorrect as calcium indeed has several known metabolic functions, and it is not solely for preventing caries. Choice D is also incorrect as the functions mentioned are primarily carried out by other nutrients and not specifically by calcium.

2. A nurse in a prenatal clinic is educating a client about expected changes during pregnancy. The nurse should instruct the client about which change during pregnancy is related to the slowing of the gastrointestinal tract?

• A. Diarrhea
• B. Constipation
• C. Decreased absorption of iron
• D. Decreased absorption of calcium

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During pregnancy, the hormonal changes can lead to the slowing down of the gastrointestinal tract, causing constipation. This occurs due to increased progesterone levels, which relax smooth muscles, including those in the intestines, leading to slower bowel movements. Diarrhea is not typically associated with the slowing of the gastrointestinal tract during pregnancy. While there may be changes in the absorption of nutrients like iron and calcium, they are not directly related to the slowing of the gastrointestinal tract.

3. The most significant factor that might affect the nurse’s care for the psychiatric patient is:

• A. Nurse’s own beliefs and attitude about the mentally ill
• B. Amount of experience he has with psychiatric clients
• C. Her abilities and skill to care for the psychiatric clients
• D. Her knowledge in dealing with the psychiatric clients

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.

4. A client who is experiencing dumping syndrome following gastric surgery is receiving education from a nurse. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I should drink additional fluids with my meals.
• B. I should eat high-fiber snacks between meals.
• C. I should eat a protein source with each meal.
• D. I can have caffeinated beverages in small amounts.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Eating a protein source with each meal can help manage dumping syndrome by slowing gastric emptying and reducing symptoms. This choice is the most appropriate as it directly addresses a key dietary recommendation for dumping syndrome. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because drinking additional fluids with meals, eating high-fiber snacks between meals, and consuming caffeinated beverages can exacerbate dumping syndrome symptoms by increasing gastric emptying and worsening the condition.

5. What instruction should a nurse include when teaching a client who has recently been prescribed a low-sodium diet?

• A. Avoid foods such as smoked meats and frozen dinners.
• B. Select foods with less than 4g of sodium as indicated on food labels.
• C. Use soy sauce for flavoring foods instead of table salt.
• D. Processed and prepared foods are typically low in sodium.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, which directs the client to avoid foods such as smoked meats and frozen dinners. These types of foods are typically high in sodium, making them unsuitable for a low-sodium diet. Option B is incorrect because foods with less than 4g of sodium might still be high in sodium for individuals on low-sodium diets. The daily recommended intake of sodium for a low-sodium diet is usually around 1.5g to 2g. Hence, 4g of sodium in a single food product can be excessive. Option C is incorrect as soy sauce, although a different source of flavor, is also high in sodium and should be used sparingly, if at all, in a low-sodium diet. Option D is incorrect because processed and prepared foods are usually not low in sodium. In fact, these foods often have high sodium content due to added salts and preservatives.

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