Nursing Elites

1. Which electrolyte imbalance is most concerning in a patient taking digoxin?

• A. Monitor potassium levels
• B. Monitor calcium levels
• C. Monitor sodium levels
• D. Monitor magnesium levels

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor potassium levels. Patients taking digoxin are at risk of developing toxicity due to hypokalemia. Low potassium levels can potentiate the toxic effects of digoxin on the heart, leading to serious arrhythmias. Monitoring calcium levels (Choice B) is not the primary concern in patients taking digoxin. While calcium levels play a role in cardiac function, hypocalcemia is not directly associated with digoxin toxicity. Monitoring sodium levels (Choice C) is important for other conditions but is not the primary concern in a patient taking digoxin. Monitoring magnesium levels (Choice D) is also essential, but hypomagnesemia is not as directly linked to digoxin toxicity as hypokalemia.

2. A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 days postoperative following abdominal surgery. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Serosanguineous wound drainage
• B. Heart rate of 90/min
• C. Urine output of 30 mL/hr
• D. Temperature of 37.3°C (99.1°F)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A urine output of 30 mL/hr is significantly low and indicates possible renal impairment or inadequate perfusion to the kidneys, which are critical for postoperative recovery. In this situation, decreased urine output could lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, affecting the client's overall condition. The nurse should report this finding promptly to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention. Serosanguineous wound drainage is a normal finding in the early postoperative period and does not typically warrant immediate concern. A heart rate of 90/min is within the normal range and may be expected in a postoperative client due to the stress response. A temperature of 37.3°C (99.1°F) is slightly elevated but not a concerning finding in isolation postoperatively.

3. A nurse is assessing a client who has hyperthyroidism. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Weight gain.
• B. Dry skin.
• C. Cold intolerance.
• D. Tachycardia.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Tachycardia. In clients with hyperthyroidism, tachycardia is a common finding due to the increased metabolic rate. Weight loss and heat intolerance are also expected due to the elevated metabolism. Choices A, B, and C (Weight gain, dry skin, cold intolerance) are not typical findings in hyperthyroidism, as the condition is associated with an overactive thyroid gland leading to an increase in metabolic functions.

4. A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a tonic-clonic seizure. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Insert a tongue depressor into the client's mouth.
• B. Restrain the client's arms and legs.
• C. Turn the client onto their side.
• D. Place the client in a prone position.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During a tonic-clonic seizure, the nurse should turn the client onto their side. This action helps maintain an open airway by allowing saliva or any vomitus to drain out of the mouth, reducing the risk of aspiration. Inserting a tongue depressor (choice A) is incorrect as it can cause injury to the client's mouth and is not recommended during a seizure. Restraining the client's arms and legs (choice B) can lead to physical harm and should be avoided. Placing the client in a prone position (choice D) is dangerous as it can obstruct the airway and hinder breathing, which is not suitable for a client experiencing a seizure.

5. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a new prescription for warfarin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. You should avoid consuming foods high in vitamin K.
• B. Take this medication at the same time each day.
• C. Monitor for signs of bruising and bleeding.
• D. Have your INR checked every 4 weeks.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction the nurse should include is to advise the client to avoid consuming foods high in vitamin K. Foods rich in vitamin K, such as leafy greens, can interfere with the effectiveness of warfarin, an anticoagulant medication. Therefore, it is important for clients on warfarin therapy to maintain consistent vitamin K intake to keep their INR levels stable. The other options are also important but not the priority in the context of warfarin therapy. Ingesting foods high in vitamin K can affect the medication's efficacy, making it crucial to highlight this dietary consideration during client education.

Similar Questions