Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is a key symptom of myocardial infarction (MI)?

• A. Chest pain.
• B. Shortness of breath.
• C. Nausea.
• D. Fatigue.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Chest pain. Chest pain is a hallmark symptom of myocardial infarction (MI) due to inadequate blood flow to the heart muscle. This pain can be severe, crushing, or squeezing, and may radiate to the left arm, jaw, or back. Shortness of breath (choice B), nausea (choice C), and fatigue (choice D) can accompany MI but are not as specific or characteristic as chest pain in diagnosing this condition. Therefore, chest pain is the primary symptom to recognize for suspected MI.

2. A serum phenytoin determination is prescribed for a client with a seizure disorder who is taking phenytoin (Dilantin). Which result indicates that the prescribed dose of phenytoin is therapeutic?

• A. 3 mcg/mL
• B. 8 mcg/mL
• C. 16 mcg/mL
• D. 28 mcg/mL

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 16 mcg/mL (Choice C). The therapeutic serum phenytoin range is typically 10 to 20 mcg/mL. A level below this range may lead to continued seizure activity, indicating subtherapeutic levels. Choices A, B, and D are below the therapeutic range and would not be considered therapeutic for a client with a seizure disorder on phenytoin therapy.

3. A patient is diagnosed with Mycoplasma pneumonia. Which antibiotic will the nurse expect the provider to order to treat this infection?

• A. Azithromycin (Zithromax)
• B. Clarithromycin (Biaxin)
• C. Erythromycin (E-Mycin)
• D. Fidaxomicin (Dificid)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Erythromycin is the drug of choice for treating Mycoplasma pneumonia. Mycoplasma pneumonia is typically sensitive to macrolide antibiotics, with erythromycin being one of the first-line agents. Azithromycin and clarithromycin are also effective in treating Mycoplasma pneumonia, but erythromycin is specifically mentioned as the drug of choice in this context. Fidaxomicin, on the other hand, is not indicated for the treatment of Mycoplasma pneumonia and is primarily used to treat Clostridium difficile infections.

4. A client scheduled for the surgical creation of an ileal conduit expresses anxiety and asks about having a drainage tube. How should the nurse respond?

• A. I will ask the provider to prescribe you an antianxiety medication.
• B. Would you like to discuss the procedure with your doctor once more?
• C. I think it would be nice to not have to worry about finding a bathroom.
• D. Would you like to speak with someone who has an ileal conduit?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most appropriate response for the nurse is to offer the client the opportunity to speak with someone who has undergone the same procedure. This allows the client to gain insight, ask questions, and share concerns with someone who has firsthand experience, which can help alleviate anxiety and promote a positive self-image. Seeking an antianxiety medication does not address the client's emotional concerns or promote a positive attitude towards the procedure. Discussing the procedure with the doctor again may provide more information but may not offer the same level of emotional support and understanding as speaking with someone who has lived through the experience. Commenting on the convenience of not having to search for a bathroom minimizes the client's anxiety and overlooks the emotional aspect of the client's concerns.

5. Which of the following assessments is the most important for a patient receiving IV potassium?

• A. Respiratory rate
• B. Heart rate
• C. Blood pressure
• D. Oxygen saturation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most important assessment for a patient receiving IV potassium is monitoring blood pressure. IV potassium can cause significant changes in cardiac function, leading to adverse effects such as arrhythmias and cardiac arrest. While respiratory rate, heart rate, and oxygen saturation are important parameters to monitor in clinical practice, blood pressure takes precedence in patients receiving IV potassium due to its direct impact on cardiovascular function. Changes in blood pressure can be an early indicator of potassium-induced cardiac complications, making it crucial to monitor closely during administration.

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