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. 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.

3. When conducting assessments for malnutrition, which risk factors should the nurse consider? (SATA)

• A. Dental problems
• B. Depression
• C. Ability to read and write
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When assessing for malnutrition, nurses should consider multiple risk factors. Dental problems and depression can impact a person's ability to eat and maintain proper nutrition. The ability to read and write may not directly relate to malnutrition risk. The correct answer is 'All of the above' because dental problems and depression are indeed risk factors, along with other factors like the inability to prepare meals and the loss of a spouse.

4. A client who is postoperative following a liver transplant and weighs 65 kg. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

• A. Keep the client NPO for the first week postoperative.
• B. Limit caloric content once the client resumes eating.
• C. Stress the importance of safe food-handling practices.
• D. Decrease foods high in carbohydrates once the client resumes eating.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After a liver transplant, it is crucial to stress the importance of safe food-handling practices to prevent foodborne illnesses, especially due to the client's altered immune system. Keeping the client NPO for the first week postoperative is not recommended as early nutrition support is essential for recovery. Limiting caloric content once the client resumes eating may not be appropriate as they need adequate nutrition for healing. Decreasing foods high in carbohydrates without a specific indication may lead to inadequate nutrient intake, which is not ideal for the client's recovery.

5. Which of the following foods should be avoided by patients experiencing xerostomia, except one? Which is the exception?

• A. Saltines
• B. Salsa
• C. Alcohol
• D. Dill pickles

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is Dill pickles. Unlike the other choices, which can exacerbate xerostomia due to their dry or irritating nature, dill pickles, being tart and sour, can actually help stimulate saliva flow, which is beneficial for patients with xerostomia. Saltines, salsa, and alcohol are all known to contribute to dry mouth and should generally be avoided by individuals experiencing xerostomia.

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