Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following represents a normal serum potassium level?

• A. 1.5 mEq/L
• B. 3.0 mEq/L
• C. 4.0 mEq/L
• D. 6.0 mEq/L

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 4.0 mEq/L. Normal serum potassium levels typically range from 3.5-5.5 mEq/L. Choice A (1.5 mEq/L) is below the normal range, Choice B (3.0 mEq/L) is also below the normal range, and Choice D (6.0 mEq/L) is above the normal range. Therefore, the only option within the normal range is Choice C (4.0 mEq/L).

2. A client states, 'I can leave the diaphragm in place as long as I want after intercourse.' Which statement indicates to the nurse that the client needs further information on how to use the diaphragm?

• A. 'I need to reapply spermicidal cream with repeated intercourse.'
• B. 'The diaphragm needs to be filled with spermicidal cream before insertion.'
• C. 'I can leave the diaphragm in place as long as I want after intercourse.'
• D. 'The diaphragm can be inserted as long as 6 hours before intercourse.'

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is the statement, 'I can leave the diaphragm in place as long as I want after intercourse.' This statement indicates a lack of understanding about the correct use of the diaphragm. The diaphragm must be left in place for at least 6 hours after intercourse to ensure effectiveness and reduce the risk of pregnancy. Leaving the diaphragm in place for an extended period can lead to toxic shock syndrome. Choice A is correct as spermicidal cream needs to be reapplied before each act of intercourse for optimal contraceptive efficacy. Choice B is a correct statement as the diaphragm should be filled with spermicidal cream before insertion to increase its effectiveness. Choice D is also accurate as the diaphragm can be inserted up to 6 hours before intercourse to allow time for proper placement and effectiveness.

3. In a disaster situation, the nurse assessing a diabetic client on insulin assesses for all of the following except:

• A. diabetic signs and symptoms.
• B. nutritional status.
• C. bleeding problems.
• D. availability of insulin.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a disaster situation, when assessing a diabetic client on insulin, the nurse should assess for diabetic signs and symptoms to monitor the client's condition, nutritional status to ensure proper dietary management, and availability of insulin to maintain the client's medication regimen. Bleeding problems are not directly related to diabetes or insulin use, making it the exception in this assessment scenario. Therefore, bleeding problems would not be a typical focus of assessment in this context.

4. When a drug is listed as Category X and prescribed to women of child-bearing age/capacity, the nurse and the interdisciplinary team should counsel the client that:

• A. Pregnancy tests are not reliable while taking the drug.
• B. She must use a reliable form of birth control.
• C. She should not take the Category X drug on days she has intercourse.
• D. She must follow up with an endocrinologist.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a drug is categorized as Category X, it signifies that there are significant risks of fetal abnormalities if taken during pregnancy. For this reason, women of child-bearing age/capacity should use reliable forms of birth control to prevent pregnancy while on the medication. This ensures that the client avoids the potential harm to the fetus. Option A is incorrect because pregnancy tests are not unreliable due to the drug, but rather the risk is related to potential harm to the fetus. Option C is incorrect as avoiding the drug only on days of intercourse does not provide sufficient protection against pregnancy. Option D is incorrect as the need for an endocrinologist is not directly related to the use of Category X drugs.

5. Regardless of their practice area, nurses should be concerned with:

• A. all drug-resistant bacteria.
• B. microorganisms that are critical.
• C. transmission of microorganisms.
• D. overprescription of bacteriostatic drugs.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: All nurses should be concerned with preventing the transmission of microorganisms to themselves and others. A primary way to achieve this is through asepsis. Nursing practice emphasizes providing a safe environment to shield clients, family, and healthcare providers from infections. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. While drug-resistant bacteria, critical microorganisms, and overprescription of bacteriostatic drugs are important, nurses' primary focus should be on preventing microorganism transmission to ensure safety and well-being.

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