Nursing Elites

1. Which endocrine disorder would the nurse assess for in a client who has a closed head injury with increased intracranial pressure?

• A. Pheochromocytoma
• B. Diabetes insipidus
• C. Hashimoto’s disease
• D. Gynecomastia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Diabetes insipidus. Diabetes insipidus can develop after a head injury due to damage to the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, leading to a deficiency in antidiuretic hormone (ADH). Pheochromocytoma (choice A) is a tumor of the adrenal gland and is not directly related to closed head injury or increased intracranial pressure. Hashimoto’s disease (choice C) is an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid gland, not commonly associated with head injuries. Gynecomastia (choice D) is the development of breast tissue in males and is not an endocrine disorder typically linked to closed head injuries.

2. Who typically collects blood specimens?

• A. The nurse
• B. Medical technologist
• C. Physician
• D. Phlebotomist

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Nurses typically collect blood specimens from patients as part of their everyday duties in medical settings. They are trained in venipuncture techniques and are responsible for ensuring that blood samples are properly obtained and labeled for diagnostic testing. Medical technologists process and analyze the blood specimens in the laboratory under the direction of a physician. Physicians are not commonly involved in the direct collection of blood specimens. While phlebotomists are specialized professionals trained to draw blood, in many medical settings, nurses perform this task as part of their responsibilities.

3. The client diagnosed with acute pancreatitis has developed a pseudocyst that ruptures. Which procedure should the nurse anticipate the HCP ordering?

• A. Paracentesis
• B. Chest tube insertion
• C. Lumbar puncture
• D. Biopsy of the pancreas

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Chest tube insertion. In the context of a pancreatic pseudocyst rupturing, a chest tube may be needed if the pseudocyst extends into the pleural space, leading to a pleural effusion. Choice A, paracentesis, involves the removal of fluid from the abdominal cavity, not the pleural space. Choice C, lumbar puncture, is a procedure performed to collect cerebrospinal fluid from the spinal canal, not relevant in this scenario. Choice D, biopsy of the pancreas, is not indicated in the immediate management of a ruptured pseudocyst.

4. The nurse prepares to administer digoxin (Lanoxin) to a newborn with a diagnosis of heart failure and notes that the apical rate is 140 beats per minute. Which nursing action is appropriate?

• A. Hold the medication
• B. Administer the digoxin
• C. Notify the healthcare provider
• D. Recheck the apical rate in 1 hour

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An apical rate of 140 bpm is within the normal range for a newborn. Digoxin is commonly used to treat heart failure by increasing the strength and efficiency of the heart's contractions. Since the heart rate is within the normal range, there is no need to hold the medication or notify the healthcare provider. Rechecking the apical rate in an hour is unnecessary as the heart rate is not alarming. Therefore, the appropriate nursing action is to administer the digoxin.

5. The client diagnosed with diabetes mellitus type 2 is admitted to the hospital with cellulitis of the right foot secondary to an insect bite. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

• A. Administer intravenous antibiotics
• B. Apply warm moist packs every two hours
• C. Elevate the right foot on two pillows
• D. Teach the client about skin and foot care

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering intravenous antibiotics is the priority intervention in this situation. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that can spread rapidly, especially in individuals with diabetes. Immediate antibiotic therapy is crucial to prevent the infection from worsening and causing serious complications. Applying warm moist packs, elevating the foot, and teaching the client about skin and foot care are important interventions but should come after initiating antibiotic treatment to address the underlying infection.

Similar Questions