Nursing Elites

1. A client has a new prescription for Hydrochlorothiazide. Which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor?

• A. Hyponatremia
• B. Hyperkalemia
• C. Hypercalcemia
• D. Hypoglycemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic known to cause electrolyte imbalances, particularly hyponatremia (low sodium levels). The nurse should closely monitor the client for signs of hyponatremia by assessing their electrolyte levels. Choice B, Hyperkalemia, is incorrect as hydrochlorothiazide is more likely to cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) rather than hyperkalemia. Choice C, Hypercalcemia, is incorrect because hydrochlorothiazide is not known to cause increased calcium levels. Choice D, Hypoglycemia, is also incorrect as it is not a common adverse effect of hydrochlorothiazide.

2. A client is prescribed Spironolactone. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse monitor and report to the provider?

• A. Sodium level of 138 mEq/L
• B. Potassium level of 5.2 mEq/L
• C. Chloride level of 100 mEq/L
• D. Calcium level of 9.5 mg/dL

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, causing potassium retention, potentially leading to elevated potassium levels. A potassium level of 5.2 mEq/L is above the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L), indicating hyperkalemia, a serious condition. Elevated potassium levels can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Monitoring and reporting high potassium levels promptly to the healthcare provider are crucial to prevent potential complications. Sodium, chloride, and calcium levels are not directly influenced by Spironolactone, making choices A, C, and D incorrect.

3. A client has a new prescription for Hydrochlorothiazide. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

• A. Take the medication with food.
• B. Plan to take the medication at bedtime.
• C. Expect increased swelling of the ankles.
• D. Fluid intake should be limited in the morning.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to take the medication with food. Hydrochlorothiazide should be taken with or after meals to prevent gastrointestinal upset. Taking it with food can help reduce the chances of stomach discomfort or nausea. It is not necessary to take the medication at bedtime, expect increased swelling of the ankles, or limit fluid intake in the morning when taking Hydrochlorothiazide. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect.

4. A client is starting a new prescription for furosemide. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take the medication with food.
• B. Weigh yourself daily.
• C. Take potassium supplements as needed.
• D. Decrease intake of foods high in sodium.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client is prescribed furosemide, it is important to monitor for fluid loss. Weighing oneself daily helps track changes in weight due to fluid loss, which can indicate the effectiveness of the medication. This monitoring assists in managing fluid balance and adjusting the dosage if necessary to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. Choice A is incorrect because furosemide is usually recommended to be taken on an empty stomach. Choice C is incorrect because potassium supplements should only be taken if prescribed by a healthcare provider due to the risk of hyperkalemia with furosemide. Choice D is incorrect because decreasing sodium intake is generally a good dietary practice but not a specific instruction related to furosemide therapy.

5. When administering the drug senna to a patient, what must a health care provider inform the patient of?

• A. This drug is intended to lower blood pressure and is best used in combination with other antihypertensives
• B. This drug is not intended for long-term use
• C. The patient must limit his/her fiber intake
• D. Advise the patient to change positions slowly to limit the risk of orthostatic hypotension

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Senna is a laxative used for short-term relief of constipation, not for long-term use. Choice A is incorrect because senna does not lower blood pressure or require combination with antihypertensives. Choice C is unrelated as there is no need to limit fiber intake with senna. Choice D is incorrect as orthostatic hypotension is not a common concern with senna use.

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