Nursing Elites

1. When assessing a client taking Lithium Carbonate for Bipolar disorder, which finding should the nurse recognize as a possible indication of toxicity to this medication?

• A. Severe hypertension
• B. Coarse tremors
• C. Constipation
• D. Muscle spasm

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Coarse tremors. Coarse tremors are a common sign of Lithium toxicity. Monitoring for tremors is crucial as they can indicate a potentially serious complication that requires immediate intervention. While other options such as severe hypertension, constipation, and muscle spasm may be symptoms of various conditions, they are not typically associated with Lithium toxicity. Severe hypertension is not a common sign of Lithium toxicity; constipation is not a typical symptom of Lithium toxicity either, and muscle spasm is not a direct indicator of Lithium toxicity.

2. While providing an Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, the patient asks what the action of the drug is. As a healthcare provider, you explain that the action of an ACE inhibitor is:

• A. To lower blood pressure by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to vasoconstrictor angiotensin II
• B. To inhibit reabsorption of sodium back into the body, ultimately increasing urine output and lowering blood pressure
• C. To decrease heart rate and blood pressure by competing with Beta1 and Beta2 receptors in the heart and lungs
• D. To lower blood glucose by stimulating the release of insulin

Correct answer: A

Rationale: ACE inhibitors lower blood pressure by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to vasoconstrictor angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor, and by inhibiting its formation, ACE inhibitors help dilate blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, and decrease the workload on the heart. Choice B is incorrect as it describes the mechanism of action of diuretics, not ACE inhibitors. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to the action of beta-blockers, not ACE inhibitors. Choice D is incorrect as it describes the mechanism of action of antidiabetic medications, not ACE inhibitors.

3. A client is receiving discharge instructions for a new prescription of Enoxaparin. Which of the following instructions should the provider include?

• A. Inject the medication into the muscle.
• B. Massage the injection site after administration.
• C. Rotate injection sites between the arms and thighs.
• D. Administer the medication in the abdomen.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to administer the medication in the abdomen. Enoxaparin is administered as a subcutaneous injection in the abdomen to prevent bleeding complications. Injecting into the muscle or massaging the site can increase the risk of bleeding. Rotating sites between the arms and thighs is not recommended for Enoxaparin administration due to variations in absorption rates. Therefore, the provider should instruct the client to administer Enoxaparin in the abdomen for optimal effectiveness and safety.

4. A client has been prescribed an anticoagulant for atrial fibrillation. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take the medication with food to prevent nausea.
• B. Avoid activities that may cause injury.
• C. Monitor your heart rate daily before taking the medication.
• D. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed an anticoagulant for atrial fibrillation is to avoid activities that may cause injury. Anticoagulants increase the risk of bleeding, so it is important to prevent situations that could lead to injury or trauma. Choice A is incorrect because anticoagulants are not typically affected by food intake. Choice C is not necessary for all anticoagulant medications, and heart rate monitoring is more relevant for other conditions. Choice D is not directly related to the action of anticoagulants and is not a priority instruction for this medication.

5. A client has a new prescription for Fluoxetine for PTS. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. You may have a decreased desire for intimacy while taking this medication.
• B. You should take this medication at bedtime to help promote sleep.
• C. You will have fewer urinary adverse effects if you urinate just before taking this medication.
• D. You'll need to wear sunglasses when outdoors due to the light sensitivity caused by this medication.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct statement for the nurse to include in the teaching is 'You may have a decreased desire for intimacy while taking this medication.' One of the potential adverse effects of fluoxetine and other SSRIs is a decreased desire for intimacy. It is essential for the nurse to educate the client about this possible side effect to enhance understanding and promote informed decision-making. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not relate to common side effects of Fluoxetine that the nurse should include in the teaching.

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