Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor in a client with Cushing's syndrome?

• A. Blood glucose levels
• B. Serum calcium levels
• C. Serum potassium levels
• D. Serum sodium levels

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Blood glucose levels. In Cushing's syndrome, there is excess cortisol in the body which leads to increased blood glucose levels due to its effect on glucose metabolism. Elevated blood glucose levels are a common finding in individuals with Cushing's syndrome. Monitoring blood glucose levels is crucial as it helps in assessing and managing hyperglycemia in these patients. Choice B, serum calcium levels, is not typically a priority in monitoring for Cushing's syndrome. While abnormalities in calcium levels can occur in some endocrine disorders, hypercalcemia is not a hallmark of Cushing's syndrome. Choice C, serum potassium levels, and Choice D, serum sodium levels, are not directly associated with Cushing's syndrome. While electrolyte imbalances can occur in various conditions, they are not specifically linked to Cushing's syndrome as blood glucose levels are.

2. As a nurse manager rounds on the unit, he speaks with staff, patients, and family members. Later in the day, he is in a meeting with administration. During the conversations, he considers how these interactions impact the care provided to patients on the unit. Which of the following interpersonal activities best describes this manager’s actions?

• A. Networking
• B. Employee development
• C. Coaching
• D. Monitoring

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Networking.' Networking involves building relationships and connecting with staff, patients, and family members to establish a supportive network. In this scenario, the nurse manager is engaging in networking by interacting with various individuals to understand how these interactions influence patient care. 'Employee development' involves activities aimed at enhancing employees' skills and knowledge. 'Coaching' focuses on guiding individuals to improve performance, while 'Monitoring' involves overseeing and supervising activities to ensure compliance and quality.

3. A nurse is assigned to care for a group of clients. On review of the clients' medical records, the nurse determines that which client is at risk for excess fluid volume?

• A. The client taking diuretics
• B. The client with renal failure
• C. The client with an ileostomy
• D. The client who requires gastrointestinal suctioning

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Clients with renal failure are unable to excrete fluids effectively, leading to an increased risk of fluid volume excess. Option A, the client taking diuretics, would be at risk for fluid volume deficit due to increased urine output caused by the diuretics. Option C, the client with an ileostomy, is at risk for fluid volume deficit due to increased output from the ileostomy. Option D, the client who requires gastrointestinal suctioning, may be at risk for dehydration, but not specifically excess fluid volume.

4. A client with Cushing's syndrome is scheduled for surgery to remove an adrenal tumor. The nurse should monitor for which of the following complications postoperatively?

• A. Hyperglycemia
• B. Hypotension
• C. Hypokalemia
• D. Hyponatremia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Postoperative hypotension is a common complication after adrenal tumor removal in a client with Cushing's syndrome. This occurs due to the sudden withdrawal of cortisol, which leads to a relative adrenal insufficiency state. Hyperglycemia (Choice A) is more common preoperatively due to excessive cortisol levels. Hypokalemia (Choice C) and Hyponatremia (Choice D) are also associated with Cushing's syndrome but are less likely to be immediate postoperative complications compared to hypotension.

5. Which of the following is true about effective leadership?

• A. Leadership traits can be learned through experience and reflection.
• B. Nurses can learn to become good leaders by acting as good leaders and reflecting on leadership qualities they have and those they can improve upon.
• C. Focus on leadership activities required for the day is essential for effective leadership.
• D. Taking advantage of every opportunity to be a leader is crucial, creating those opportunities as often as possible, especially after gaining experience as a nurse.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Choice B is correct because nurses can develop effective leadership skills by actively engaging as good leaders and reflecting on their existing leadership qualities and areas for improvement. This process of self-assessment and continuous improvement is crucial in becoming a successful leader. Choice A is incorrect as leadership traits can be learned through experience and reflection rather than being impossible to acquire from a book. Choice C is incorrect as effective leadership involves focusing on long-term goals and strategies, not just daily activities. Choice D is incorrect because while seizing leadership opportunities is important, it should be done strategically and with a solid foundation of experience in nursing to ensure successful leadership outcomes.

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