Nursing Elites

1. A client is prescribed metformin for the management of type 2 diabetes. What is the primary action of this medication?

• A. Stimulates insulin secretion from the pancreas.
• B. Increases insulin sensitivity in various tissues.
• C. Decreases hepatic glucose production.
• D. Delays absorption of glucose from the intestines.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Decreases hepatic glucose production. Metformin primarily works by reducing the production of glucose in the liver (hepatic glucose production) and by improving insulin sensitivity in various tissues. Choice A is incorrect as metformin does not stimulate insulin secretion from the pancreas. Choice B is incorrect as metformin increases insulin sensitivity in various tissues, not just muscle cells. Choice D is incorrect as metformin does not delay glucose absorption from the intestines.

2. A client with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine (Synthroid). What is the most important instruction the nurse should provide?

• A. Take the medication in the morning on an empty stomach
• B. Take the medication with food
• C. Report any symptoms of hyperthyroidism
• D. Do not discontinue the medication abruptly

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Report any symptoms of hyperthyroidism.' Symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as palpitations or tremors, may indicate an excessive dose of levothyroxine and should be reported to the healthcare provider for proper adjustment of the medication. Choice A is incorrect because levothyroxine is usually taken in the morning on an empty stomach to maximize absorption. Choice B is incorrect because taking levothyroxine with food can interfere with its absorption. Choice D is incorrect because discontinuing levothyroxine abruptly can lead to a worsening of hypothyroidism symptoms.

3. A client is receiving dexamethasone (Decadron). What symptoms should the nurse recognize as Cushingoid side effects?

• A. Moon face, slow wound healing, muscle wasting, sodium and water retention
• B. Tachycardia, hypertension, weight loss, heat intolerance, nervousness, restlessness, tremor
• C. Bradycardia, weight gain, cold intolerance, myxedema facies and periorbital edema
• D. Hyperpigmentation, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, dehydration, hypotension

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Cushingoid side effects are characteristic of excess corticosteroid use, such as dexamethasone. These include moon face (rounding of the face), slow wound healing, muscle wasting, and sodium and water retention. Options B, C, and D describe symptoms that are not typically associated with Cushingoid side effects. Tachycardia, hypertension, weight loss, heat intolerance, nervousness, restlessness, tremor (Option B) are not typical of Cushingoid effects, while bradycardia, weight gain, cold intolerance, myxedema facies, and periorbital edema (Option C) are more indicative of hypothyroidism. Hyperpigmentation, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, dehydration, and hypotension (Option D) are not classical features of Cushingoid side effects.

4. A client is diagnosed with Angina Pectoris. Which factor in the client's history is likely related to the anginal pain?

• A. Smokes one pack of cigarettes daily
• B. Drinks two beers daily
• C. Works in a job that requires exposure to the sun
• D. Eats while lying in bed

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Smokes one pack of cigarettes daily.' Smoking is a major risk factor for angina and other cardiovascular diseases due to its impact on blood vessels. Choice B, 'Drinks two beers daily,' is not directly associated with angina pectoris. While excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to heart problems, it is not a primary risk factor for angina. Choice C, 'Works in a job that requires exposure to the sun,' is not typically related to angina pectoris. Sun exposure is more closely linked to skin-related conditions. Choice D, 'Eats while lying in bed,' is also not a common risk factor for angina. While certain eating habits can impact heart health, this specific behavior is not directly associated with angina pectoris.

5. Which client assessment falls within the scope of practice for the practical nurse?

• A. An agitated client with bilateral wrist restraints
• B. New admission of a client with deep vein thrombosis
• C. Return of a post-anesthesia client following a colon resection
• D. Transfer of a client with sepsis from a long-term care facility

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because assessing a new deep vein thrombosis (DVT) patient is within the scope of practical nursing. It involves monitoring and supporting the circulatory system health, which is a common responsibility for practical nurses. Choices A, C, and D involve scenarios that are typically beyond the initial assessment and care provided by practical nurses. An agitated client with bilateral wrist restraints may require immediate intervention by higher-level healthcare providers due to safety concerns and potential underlying issues. The return of a post-anesthesia client following a colon resection and the transfer of a client with sepsis involve more specialized care that goes beyond the typical responsibilities of a practical nurse, often requiring interventions from registered nurses or physicians.

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