Nursing Elites

1. Which laboratory data indicate the client’s pancreatitis is improving?

• A. The amylase and lipase serum levels are decreased
• B. The white blood cell count (WBC) is decreased
• C. The conjugated and unconjugated bilirubin levels are decreased
• D. The blood urea nitrogen (BUN) serum level is decreased

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Amylase and lipase are enzymes specifically related to pancreatitis. A decrease in their serum levels indicates improvement in pancreatitis. White blood cell count (WBC), choices C and D, are not direct markers for pancreatitis improvement. Bilirubin levels, choice C, are more related to liver function rather than pancreatitis. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level, choice D, is a marker for kidney function, not pancreatitis.

2. Which nursing instruction should the nurse discuss with the client who is receiving glucocorticoids for Addison’s disease?

• A. Discuss the importance of tapering medications when discontinuing medication
• B. Explain that the dose will need to be decreased during times of stress or infection
• C. Instruct the client to take medication on an empty stomach with a glass of water
• D. Encourage the client to wear a MedicAlert bracelet and carry a card in the wallet

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because tapering glucocorticoids is crucial to prevent adrenal insufficiency, which can occur if the medication is stopped abruptly. Choice B is incorrect as it refers to dose adjustments during stress or infection, not discontinuation. Choice C is incorrect because it does not specifically address the issue of stopping the medication. Choice D is not directly related to the management of glucocorticoid therapy for Addison’s disease.

3. A patient with diabetes should be advised to avoid which type of carbohydrate?

• A. Simple carbohydrates
• B. Complex carbohydrates
• C. Fiber-rich carbohydrates
• D. All carbohydrates

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Simple carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates can cause rapid spikes in blood glucose levels, which can be problematic for patients with diabetes. These carbohydrates are quickly broken down and absorbed by the body, leading to sharp increases in blood sugar levels. In contrast, complex carbohydrates and fiber-rich carbohydrates are generally better choices for individuals with diabetes because they are digested more slowly, resulting in a more gradual rise in blood glucose levels. Choice B, complex carbohydrates, are a better option for diabetic patients compared to simple carbohydrates. Choice C, fiber-rich carbohydrates, can also be beneficial for individuals with diabetes as they help in regulating blood sugar levels. Choice D, all carbohydrates, is too broad of a statement as not all carbohydrates have the same impact on blood glucose levels.

4. What intervention would be the most important for the nurse to implement for the client with a left nephrectomy?

• A. Assess the intravenous fluids for rate and volume
• B. Change the surgical dressing every day at the same time
• C. Monitor the client’s medication levels daily
• D. Monitor the percentage of each meal eaten

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most important intervention for a client with a left nephrectomy is to assess the intravenous fluids for rate and volume. After nephrectomy, monitoring intravenous fluids is crucial to ensure proper hydration and kidney function. Changing the surgical dressing daily, monitoring medication levels, and tracking meal intake are also important aspects of care but not as critical as ensuring adequate intravenous fluid management post-surgery.

5. 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.

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