Nursing Elites

1. A client with a diagnosis of schizophrenia is prescribed ziprasidone. The nurse should monitor the client for which potential side effect?

• A. QT prolongation
• B. Weight gain
• C. Dry mouth
• D. Increased appetite

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: QT prolongation. Ziprasidone is known to cause QT prolongation, which can potentially lead to serious cardiac issues. Monitoring the client's ECG is crucial to detect any changes and prevent adverse effects related to QT interval prolongation. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because weight gain, dry mouth, and increased appetite are not commonly associated with ziprasidone. While weight gain can be a side effect of some antipsychotic medications, it is not a prominent side effect of ziprasidone. Dry mouth and increased appetite are also not typically linked to ziprasidone use.

2. The practical nurse administers lactulose to a client. Which client outcome would indicate a therapeutic response?

• A. An increase in urine output
• B. Two to three soft stools per day
• C. Absence of nausea
• D. Decreased serum potassium

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Lactulose is a type of laxative that works by preventing the absorption of ammonia in the colon, leading to increased water absorption in the stool and softening of the stool. The therapeutic response to lactulose is indicated by the passage of two to three soft stools per day, showing that the medication is effectively promoting bowel movements.

3. A client with angina pectoris has been prescribed nitroglycerin tablets prn for chest pain. Which statement by the client causes the practical nurse (PN) to clarify instructions for this client?

• A. I will take one tablet every 5 minutes, up to three tablets.
• B. I should take one tablet at the onset of angina and stop activity.
• C. I need to replace nitroglycerin tablets every 3 to 6 months to maintain freshness.
• D. I should ensure that I chew the pill completely before swallowing it.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Nitroglycerin tablets should be taken at the onset of angina, and the client should stop activity and rest. One tablet should be placed under the tongue (sublingually), not chewed or swallowed. One tablet can be taken every 5 minutes, up to three doses. If pain relief not achieved after taking three pills, seek medical attention immediately. Nitroglycerin should be replaced every 3 to 6 months. Nitroglycerin pain relief should occur in 5 minutes and duration should last 30 minutes.

4. When planning to administer the antiulcer GI agent sucralfate, what instruction should the nurse provide regarding administration?

• A. Administer sucralfate once a day
• B. Assess for secondary candida infection
• C. Monitor electrolyte imbalance
• D. Give sucralfate on an empty stomach

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Sucralfate is most effective when taken on an empty stomach. This allows the medication to form a protective layer over the ulcer, promoting healing and symptom relief. Administering sucralfate with or after meals may reduce its efficacy as it may bind to food instead of coating the ulcer site.

5. Which assessment finding indicates that the expected outcome of administering donepezil to a client with Alzheimer's disease has been accomplished?

• A. Increased muscle strength and tone
• B. Fewer episodes of urinary incontinence
• C. Decreased confusion and improved mood
• D. Reversal of the disease process as evidenced by increased functioning

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Donepezil is a medication used for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Its mechanism of action involves increasing acetylcholine levels by inhibiting its breakdown, which benefits cognitive function. The expected outcome of administering donepezil is a decrease in confusion and an improvement in mood due to the medication's impact on neurotransmitters. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because donepezil does not primarily target muscle strength, urinary incontinence, or disease reversal; instead, it aims to slow down the progression of cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease.

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