Nursing Elites

1. How can the nurse best explain the difference between angina and a myocardial infarction to a client presenting with severe chest pain?

• A. “Angina usually resolves with rest, and is rarely fatal, while a myocardial infarction necessitates immediate treatment and can be life-threatening.”
• B. “There is a clear distinction between the two. You will receive treatment based on the diagnosis of a myocardial infarction.”
• C. “Both conditions result from a clot obstructing the coronary arteries. Angina occurs with the blockage of a small vessel, whereas a myocardial infarction occurs with a blockage of a large vessel.”
• D. “Angina may not cause as intense chest pain, whereas a myocardial infarction always presents with severe chest pain.”

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When educating a client about the differences between angina and a myocardial infarction, it is crucial to emphasize key distinguishing factors. Angina typically improves with rest and is not usually life-threatening, whereas a myocardial infarction requires urgent intervention as it can be life-threatening. This explanation helps the client understand the urgency and severity associated with a myocardial infarction compared to angina.

2. While caring for a client taking Propylthiouracil, for which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor?

• A. Bradycardia
• B. Insomnia
• C. Heat intolerance
• D. Weight loss

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a client is taking Propylthiouracil, the nurse should monitor for bradycardia as it is an adverse effect of this medication. Propylthiouracil can lead to a decrease in heart rate, which is known as bradycardia. Monitoring for this adverse effect is crucial to ensure the client's safety and well-being while on this medication. The other options, such as insomnia, heat intolerance, and weight loss, are not commonly associated adverse effects of Propylthiouracil. Therefore, they are incorrect choices for monitoring while the client is on this medication.

3. When teaching a client with a new prescription for Warfarin, which herbal supplement should the nurse instruct the client to avoid?

• A. St. John's wort
• B. Echinacea
• C. Garlic
• D. Ginseng

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is St. John's wort. St. John's wort can reduce the effectiveness of Warfarin by interacting with its metabolism, potentially leading to decreased anticoagulant effects. Therefore, the nurse should instruct the client to avoid using St. John's wort while taking Warfarin to prevent adverse drug interactions. Echinacea, garlic, and ginseng are not the correct answers in this case. While these herbal supplements may also interact with Warfarin and affect its efficacy, St. John's wort has a well-known interaction with Warfarin that can significantly impact its anticoagulant effects. Educating the client about the specific interaction between St. John's wort and Warfarin is crucial to ensure patient safety and the medication's therapeutic benefit.

4. During transfusion of a unit of whole blood, a nurse is assessing a client who develops a cough, shortness of breath, elevated blood pressure, and distended neck veins. The nurse should anticipate a prescription for which of the following medications?

• A. Epinephrine
• B. Lorazepam
• C. Furosemide
• D. Diphenhydramine

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The client's symptoms indicate circulatory overload, which can occur during blood transfusions. Furosemide, a loop diuretic, is commonly prescribed in such cases to help relieve manifestations of circulatory overload by promoting diuresis and reducing fluid volume. Epinephrine is used for severe allergic reactions, lorazepam for anxiety or seizures, and diphenhydramine for mild allergic reactions or as a sedative. Therefore, the correct choice is Furosemide (C) to manage circulatory overload during a blood transfusion.

5. When teaching a client who has a prescription for Lisinopril, which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take the medication at bedtime.
• B. Monitor for a persistent cough.
• C. Expect to have increased appetite.
• D. Avoid foods high in potassium.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Monitor for a persistent cough.' Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, can cause a persistent dry cough as a side effect. It is essential for the client to report this symptom to their healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. Choice A is incorrect because Lisinopril is typically taken in the morning. Choice C is incorrect as Lisinopril is not known to cause increased appetite. Choice D is also incorrect as Lisinopril can lead to increased potassium levels in the blood, so avoiding foods high in potassium is not necessary.

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