Nursing Elites

1. A client with a diagnosis of heart failure is receiving furosemide (Lasix). Which electrolyte imbalance should the nurse monitor for?

• A. Hyperkalemia.
• B. Hyponatremia.
• C. Hypocalcemia.
• D. Hypokalemia.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hypokalemia. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can cause potassium loss, leading to hypokalemia. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the client for low potassium levels. Choice A, Hyperkalemia, is incorrect as furosemide does not typically cause high potassium levels. Choice B, Hyponatremia, is incorrect as furosemide primarily affects potassium levels, not sodium. Choice C, Hypocalcemia, is incorrect as furosemide does not directly impact calcium levels.

2. A client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is receiving erythropoietin therapy. What is the primary purpose of this medication?

• A. To lower blood pressure
• B. To improve appetite
• C. To increase red blood cell production
• D. To reduce fluid retention

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To increase red blood cell production.' Erythropoietin stimulates the production of red blood cells to treat anemia associated with CKD. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because erythropoietin therapy is primarily used to address anemia by increasing the production of red blood cells rather than lowering blood pressure, improving appetite, or reducing fluid retention.

3. A client with a leg fracture reports increased pain and swelling. What should the nurse suspect?

• A. Compartment syndrome
• B. Deep vein thrombosis
• C. Wound infection
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Increased pain and swelling in a fracture could indicate compartment syndrome, a serious condition requiring urgent care. Compartment syndrome is characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment, leading to compromised blood flow and potential tissue damage. Deep vein thrombosis is less likely in this scenario as the symptoms are more indicative of compartment syndrome. Wound infection would typically present with localized signs of infection at the wound site, such as redness, warmth, and purulent drainage, rather than diffuse pain and swelling.

4. A terminally ill male client and his family request hospice care after discharge. What aspect of care should the nurse indicate is the focus of hospice?

• A. Enhance symptom management to improve end-of-life quality
• B. Facilitate assisted suicide with the client's consent
• C. Offer ways to postpone the death experience at home
• D. Provide training for family members to care for the client

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Hospice care focuses on enhancing symptom management to improve the end-of-life quality for terminally ill patients and their families. Hospice aims to provide comfort, dignity, and support during the end-of-life journey. Choice B is incorrect as hospice care does not involve assisted suicide but focuses on providing palliative care. Choice C is incorrect as hospice care does not aim to postpone the death experience but rather to provide support and comfort during this time. Choice D is incorrect as while hospice care may involve educating family members on caring for the client, the primary focus is on symptom management and quality of life.

5. The client is being taught about a low-sodium diet. Which food should the client avoid?

• A. Fresh fruits
• B. Canned vegetables
• C. Fresh chicken
• D. Unsalted nuts

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Canned vegetables. Canned vegetables are often high in sodium due to the preservation process, so they should be avoided on a low-sodium diet. Fresh fruits (choice A), fresh chicken (choice C), and unsalted nuts (choice D) are all low-sodium options and can be included in a low-sodium diet. It is important to choose fresh or frozen vegetables over canned ones to reduce sodium intake. Fresh chicken and unsalted nuts are also good protein sources that are naturally low in sodium, making them suitable for a low-sodium diet. Therefore, clients following a low-sodium diet should prioritize fresh, whole foods over processed or canned options.

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