Nursing Elites

1. A client has been taking oral corticosteroids for the past five days because of seasonal allergies. Which assessment finding is of most concern to the nurse?

• A. White blood count of 10,000/mm³.
• B. Serum glucose of 115 mg/dL.
• C. Purulent sputum.
• D. Excessive hunger.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Purulent sputum. Corticosteroids can suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Purulent sputum suggests a possible respiratory infection, which can rapidly progress and lead to complications, making it the most concerning finding. Choice A, a white blood count of 10,000/mm³, is within the normal range and not typically a cause for immediate concern. Choice B, a serum glucose level of 115 mg/dL, is also normal and not directly related to corticosteroid use. Choice D, excessive hunger, is a common side effect of corticosteroids but is not as concerning as a sign of infection indicated by purulent sputum.

2. A client with type 1 diabetes mellitus who jogs daily is being taught by a nurse about the preferred sites for insulin absorption. What is the most appropriate site for this client?

• A. Arms
• B. Legs
• C. Abdomen
• D. Iliac crest

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The abdomen is the most appropriate site for insulin absorption in a client who jogs. When a client is involved in physical activity like jogging, the abdomen is preferred as it provides more consistent absorption compared to the arms or legs, which can have altered absorption rates due to increased blood flow during exercise. The iliac crest is not a common site for insulin injections and may not provide optimal absorption rates compared to the abdomen.

3. Which of the following conditions is the most significant risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus?

• A. Cigarette smoking.
• B. High-cholesterol diet.
• C. Obesity.
• D. Hypertension.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Obesity is the most significant risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus due to its role in insulin resistance. Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, leads to increased production of inflammatory markers and hormones that can cause insulin resistance. While cigarette smoking, high-cholesterol diet, and hypertension can contribute to health issues, they are not as directly linked to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus as obesity.

4. An older adult client with a long history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is admitted with progressive shortness of breath and a persistent cough. The client is anxious and complaining of a dry mouth. Which intervention should the nurse implement?

• A. Assist the client to an upright position
• B. Administer a prescribed sedative
• C. Apply a high-flow Venturi mask
• D. Encourage the client to drink water

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Assisting the client to an upright position is the most appropriate intervention in this scenario. An upright position helps optimize lung expansion and aids in improving ventilation, which can alleviate shortness of breath. This position also assists in reducing anxiety by providing a sense of control and comfort. Administering a sedative (Choice B) may further depress the respiratory drive in a client with COPD and should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. Applying a high-flow Venturi mask (Choice C) may be indicated later based on oxygenation needs, but the immediate focus should be on positioning. Encouraging the client to drink water (Choice D) may not directly address the respiratory distress and anxiety experienced by the client.

5. A patient has been taking spironolactone (Aldactone) to treat heart failure. The nurse will monitor for

• A. hyperkalemia.
• B. hypermagnesemia.
• C. hypocalcemia.
• D. hypoglycemia.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: hyperkalemia. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic commonly used in heart failure management. One of the major side effects of spironolactone is hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the blood. Monitoring for hyperkalemia is crucial as it can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Hypermagnesemia (choice B) is not typically associated with spironolactone use. Hypocalcemia (choice C) and hypoglycemia (choice D) are also not directly linked to the use of spironolactone in heart failure treatment.

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