Nursing Elites

1. What physiologic role does magnesium 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: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Magnesium plays an important role in maintaining calcium homeostasis and preventing skeletal abnormalities. It is involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions, including energy metabolism, insulin activity, and glucose use. Magnesium is vital to the structural integrity of heart muscle and other muscles and nerves. While magnesium does play a role in blood clotting, nerve impulses, muscle contraction, relaxation, ATP energy release, and metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, proteins, the primary physiologic role of magnesium in the body is related to calcium homeostasis and maintaining the structural integrity of the heart muscle. Choice A is incorrect because it includes functions of magnesium, but they are not its primary physiologic role. Choice C is incorrect as magnesium has several known metabolic functions. Choice D is incorrect because although magnesium is involved in ATP energy release and metabolism, its primary role is related to calcium homeostasis and structural integrity of muscle.

2. A nurse is providing teaching to the parent of an infant about introducing solid foods. The nurse should recommend that which of the following foods be introduced first?

• A. Strained fruits
• B. Pureed meats
• C. Cooked egg whites
• D. Iron-fortified cereal

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When introducing solid foods to infants, it is recommended to start with iron-fortified cereal as it is easily digestible and a good source of iron, an important nutrient for infants around 6 months of age. Strained fruits are usually introduced later due to their natural sugars. Pureed meats can be introduced after iron-fortified cereals to provide additional protein and iron. Cooked egg whites should be avoided until the infant is at least one year old to reduce the risk of allergies.

3. A common side effect of diuretic medications is _____.

• A. dry mouth
• B. urinary tract infection
• C. increased taste perception
• D. nausea

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Diuretic medications can lead to dry mouth due to increased fluid loss through urination, reducing saliva production.

4. The nurse is completing a nutritional assessment on a client. Which statement made by the client is most concerning to the nurse?

• A. "I notice when I take a vitamin E supplement, I bruise more easily."
• B. "I work nights and rarely go outside during the day."
• C. "I take warfarin, so I need to limit the amount of green leafy vegetables I eat."
• D. "My vitamin supplement has the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A."

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Excessive intake of vitamin E can increase the risk of bleeding as it acts as a blood thinner. Bruising easily may indicate too much vitamin E. Choice B is not as concerning as it describes a lifestyle that may lead to vitamin D deficiency due to lack of sunlight exposure. Choice C shows awareness of the interaction between warfarin and vitamin K, which is expected. Choice D indicates knowledge of the vitamin A content in the supplement, which is not a cause for concern.

5. While on Bryant’s traction, which of these observations of Graciela and her traction apparatus would indicate a decrease in the effectiveness of her traction?

• A. Graciela’s buttocks are resting on the bed.
• B. The traction weights are hanging 10 inches above the floor.
• C. Graciela’s legs are suspended at a 90 degree angle to her trunk.
• D. The traction ropes move freely through the pulley.

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.

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