Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following laboratory results would be expected in a client with peritonitis?

• A. Partial thromboplastin time above 100 seconds
• B. Hemoglobin level below 10 mg/dL
• C. Potassium level above 5.5 mEq/L
• D. White blood cell count above 15,000

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A white blood cell count above 15,000 is indicative of an infection, such as peritonitis.

2. Lactulose (Chronulac) is prescribed for a client with a diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy. The nurse would determine that this medication has had a therapeutic effect if which of the following is noted?

• A. Increased red blood cell count
• B. Decreased serum ammonia level
• C. Increased protein level
• D. Decreased white blood cell level

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Lactulose is prescribed for the client with hepatic encephalopathy to reduce bacterial breakdown of protein in the bowel. The medication creates an acidic environment in the bowel and causes the ammonia to leave the bloodstream and enter the colon. Ammonia then becomes trapped in the bowel. Lactulose also has a laxative effect that allows for the elimination of the ammonia.

3. You’re caring for Betty with liver cirrhosis. Which of the following assessment findings leads you to suspect hepatic encephalopathy in her?

• A. Asterixis
• B. Chvostek’s sign
• C. Trousseau’s sign
• D. Hepatojugular reflex

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Asterixis, a flapping tremor of the hands, is a sign of hepatic encephalopathy.

4. Colon cancer is most closely associated with which of the following conditions?

• A. Appendicitis
• B. Hemorrhoids
• C. Hiatal hernia
• D. Ulcerative colitis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Ulcerative colitis is a condition closely associated with an increased risk of developing colon cancer due to chronic inflammation of the colon.

5. The nurse is caring for a client with chronic gastritis. The nurse monitors the client, knowing that this client is at risk for which of the following vitamin deficiencies?

• A. Vitamin A
• B. Vitamin B12
• C. Vitamin C
• D. Vitamin E

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Clients with chronic gastritis are at risk for Vitamin B12 deficiency due to impaired absorption.

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