Nursing Elites

1. You are caring for a patient who has no cognitive functioning but only basic human functions such as opening the eyes and the sleep-wake cycle. What level of consciousness does this patient have?

• A. Obtunded
• B. A persistent vegetative state
• C. Locked-in syndrome
• D. Brain death

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A persistent vegetative state is characterized by the absence of cognitive functioning while basic human functions like the sleep-wake cycle are retained. In this state, the patient shows reflex movements and basic responses to stimuli but lacks awareness or higher mental functions. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because: A) Obtunded refers to a decreased level of consciousness, not the absence of cognitive functioning. C) Locked-in syndrome is a condition where the patient is aware and awake but cannot move or communicate due to complete paralysis of nearly all voluntary muscles except for vertical eye movements and blinking. D) Brain death is the irreversible cessation of all brain activity, including the brainstem, leading to the loss of all functions of the brain.

2. Marlisa has been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus type 1. She asks Nurse Errol what this means. What is the best response by the nurse? Select the one that does not apply.

• A. Your beta cells should be able to secrete insulin, but cannot.
• B. The endocrine function of your pancreas is to secrete insulin.
• C. Without insulin, you will develop ketoacidosis (DKA).
• D. The exocrine function of your pancreas is to secrete Estrogen.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Type 1 diabetes is characterized by the inability of the beta cells in the pancreas to secrete insulin. Choice A is correct because it highlights the role of beta cells. Choice B is accurate as the endocrine function of the pancreas includes insulin secretion. Choice C is true as without insulin, ketoacidosis can develop. Choice D is incorrect as the exocrine function of the pancreas involves secreting digestive enzymes, not estrogen.

3. Select a myth or falsehood relating to pain, pain management, and addiction.

• A. Addiction can be accurately predicted.
• B. Withdrawal, drug tolerance, and physical dependence do not indicate addiction.
• C. Pain medications should be avoided in patients with a substance abuse history.
• D. Addiction is signaled by deception and stockpiling by the client.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because addiction cannot be accurately predicted. Choices B and C are incorrect. Withdrawal, drug tolerance, and physical dependence are not definitive signs of addiction, and pain medications can be used with patients who have a substance abuse history under careful monitoring. Choice D is incorrect because addiction is not solely signaled by deception and stockpiling; it is a complex condition with various behavioral, physical, and psychological aspects.

4. Diabetes insipidus is the result of:

• A. A diet high in sugar and carbohydrates.
• B. A complicated pregnancy.
• C. A disorder of the pancreas.
• D. A disorder of the pituitary gland.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Diabetes insipidus is caused by a disorder of the pituitary gland affecting ADH regulation. This disorder results in the decreased production or release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), leading to the inability of the kidneys to concentrate urine properly. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not relate to the underlying cause of diabetes insipidus.

5. Your patient has been diagnosed with orchiditis. What information about this disorder should you inform the patient about?

• A. This disorder often occurs as a result of streptococcus.
• B. This disorder can be symptomatically treated with ice.
• C. This disorder can be symptomatically treated with heat.
• D. This disorder is typically treated with surgery.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Orchiditis can be symptomatically treated with ice to reduce inflammation. Choice A is incorrect because orchiditis is not typically caused by streptococcus. Choice C is incorrect as heat is not the recommended treatment for orchiditis. Choice D is also incorrect as surgery is not the first-line treatment for orchiditis.

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