Nursing Elites

1. 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.

2. When caring for a client with a urinary catheter, what is the most important intervention to prevent infection?

• A. Use sterile technique for catheter care
• B. Ensure the catheter bag is below the level of the bladder
• C. Provide perineal care daily
• D. Change the catheter only when necessary

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most important intervention to prevent infection when caring for a client with a urinary catheter is to ensure that the catheter bag is below the level of the bladder. This positioning helps prevent urine backflow, reducing the risk of infection. While using sterile technique for catheter care (Choice A) is important, ensuring proper drainage by keeping the catheter bag below the bladder is crucial to prevent infection. Providing perineal care daily (Choice C) is essential for hygiene but not directly related to preventing catheter-related infections. Changing the catheter only when necessary (Choice D) is important for maintenance, but correct positioning of the catheter bag is more critical in preventing immediate infection.

3. A client with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed methotrexate. What is the primary action of this medication?

• A. Increases joint lubrication
• B. Reduces inflammation by suppressing the immune system
• C. Enhances bone density
• D. Stimulates cartilage regeneration

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Methotrexate is an immunosuppressant that works by suppressing the immune system, thereby reducing inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. Methotrexate does not directly increase joint lubrication (Choice A) as its primary action is on the immune system. Choices C and D are incorrect since methotrexate does not enhance bone density or stimulate cartilage regeneration. It is crucial for healthcare providers to understand the mechanism of action of medications to provide safe and effective care to patients.

4. The nurse plans to administer the rubella vaccine to a postpartum client whose titer is < 1:8 and who is breastfeeding. What information should the nurse provide this client?

• A. The client should bottle feed and pump her breast for 3 days following immunization
• B. The vaccine is given to produce maternal antibodies before lactation occurs
• C. The infant will receive immunization through the mother's breast milk
• D. The client should not get pregnant for 3 months after immunization

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Educating about the waiting period helps prevent possible rubella infection in a subsequent early pregnancy.

5. The nurse is preparing to administer a subcutaneous injection of heparin. What is the correct angle of insertion?

• A. 15 degrees
• B. 30 degrees
• C. 45 degrees
• D. 90 degrees

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct angle of insertion for a subcutaneous injection, such as heparin, is 45 degrees. This angle is appropriate as it helps to ensure proper delivery of the medication into the subcutaneous tissue. Option A (15 degrees) is too shallow for a subcutaneous injection and may result in the medication being deposited into the muscle. Option B (30 degrees) is also too shallow for subcutaneous injections. Option D (90 degrees) is used for intramuscular injections, not subcutaneous injections.

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