Nursing Elites

1. A client is admitted with a diagnosis of Guillain-Barre syndrome. Which assessment finding is most concerning?

• A. Loss of reflexes in the legs
• B. Decreased peripheral sensation
• C. Respiratory distress
• D. Muscle weakness in the arms

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Respiratory distress. In Guillain-Barre syndrome, respiratory distress is the most concerning finding as it can indicate progression to respiratory failure, which is a life-threatening complication. Loss of reflexes in the legs and muscle weakness in the arms are common manifestations of the condition but may not be as immediately life-threatening as respiratory distress. Decreased peripheral sensation is also a common symptom but is not as critical as respiratory distress in terms of immediate patient safety and management.

2. When assessing readiness to learn about insulin self-administration, what indicates the client is ready to learn?

• A. I can concentrate best in the morning.
• B. I feel anxious about learning the process.
• C. I have a lot of questions about insulin.
• D. I am not sure if I can manage this at home.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'I can concentrate best in the morning.' Readiness to learn is indicated by the client's ability to focus and concentrate, as mentioned in the question. Choice B, 'I feel anxious about learning the process,' indicates apprehension and may hinder the learning process. Choice C, 'I have a lot of questions about insulin,' shows interest but does not directly indicate readiness to learn. Choice D, 'I am not sure if I can manage this at home,' reflects uncertainty and lack of confidence, which may suggest the client is not fully prepared to learn.

3. A client with a history of hypertension is prescribed a diuretic. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication?

• A. Monitor serum calcium levels.
• B. Monitor serum potassium levels.
• C. Monitor serum sodium levels.
• D. Monitor serum magnesium levels.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor serum potassium levels. When a client is prescribed a diuretic, monitoring serum potassium levels is essential to evaluate the medication's effectiveness and to detect potential electrolyte imbalances. Diuretics can cause potassium loss, leading to hypokalemia, which can have serious consequences such as cardiac arrhythmias. Monitoring serum calcium levels (Choice A) is not typically required when assessing the effectiveness of diuretics. Similarly, monitoring serum sodium levels (Choice C) is important for other conditions but is not the primary concern when evaluating diuretic therapy. Monitoring serum magnesium levels (Choice D) is also important, but potassium levels are more critical in assessing diuretic effectiveness and preventing complications.

4. An adult client is found to be unresponsive during morning rounds. After checking for responsiveness and calling for help, what should the nurse do next?

• A. Check the carotid pulse
• B. Deliver 5 abdominal thrusts
• C. Give 2 rescue breaths
• D. Open the client's airway

Correct answer: D

Rationale: After confirming unresponsiveness and calling for help, the next step in basic life support is to open the client's airway. This ensures that the airway is clear and allows for effective ventilation. Checking the carotid pulse is not necessary at this stage as airway management takes precedence. Delivering abdominal thrusts is not indicated for an unresponsive client as it is for conscious choking individuals. Giving rescue breaths should only be done after ensuring the airway is open to allow for effective ventilation.

5. The client is being discharged and has been prescribed furosemide (Lasix). Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the medication?

• A. I will take this medication on an empty stomach for optimal absorption.
• B. I will weigh myself daily and report any significant weight loss.
• C. I will include potassium-rich foods in my diet while taking this medication.
• D. I will take this medication in the morning to prevent nocturia.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Weighing daily and reporting significant weight loss is crucial when taking furosemide to monitor for potential fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Choice A is incorrect because furosemide is typically taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. Choice C is incorrect as furosemide can lead to potassium loss, so potassium-rich foods should be consumed. Choice D is incorrect because furosemide is usually taken earlier in the day to prevent nocturia, not at bedtime.

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