Nursing Elites

1. A client with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is receiving warfarin (Coumadin). Which laboratory value indicates a therapeutic effect of the medication?

• A. INR of 2.5.
• B. PTT of 45 seconds.
• C. Hemoglobin of 12 g/dL.
• D. Platelet count of 150,000/mm³.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An INR (International Normalized Ratio) of 2.5 indicates a therapeutic level for clients receiving warfarin (Coumadin) to prevent thromboembolism. It is essential to monitor INR levels regularly when on warfarin therapy to ensure that the blood's ability to clot is within the desired range to prevent both clotting and excessive bleeding.

2. In a client with liver cirrhosis experiencing confusion and disorientation, what condition is most likely causing these symptoms?

• A. Hepatic encephalopathy
• B. Hypoglycemia
• C. Electrolyte imbalance
• D. Dehydration

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hepatic encephalopathy is the most likely condition causing confusion and disorientation in a client with liver cirrhosis. This condition is a common complication of liver cirrhosis and is characterized by cognitive impairment due to elevated ammonia levels in the blood. The build-up of ammonia affects brain function, leading to symptoms such as confusion, disorientation, and altered consciousness. Hypoglycemia (choice B) may present with confusion but is less likely in a client with liver cirrhosis without a history of diabetes or insulin use. Electrolyte imbalance (choice C) and dehydration (choice D) can contribute to confusion but are not the primary causes in a client with liver cirrhosis experiencing these symptoms.

3. What is/are the possible cause(s) of acute pancreatitis in this patient?

• A. HIV
• B. Cytomegalovirus
• C. Dideoxyinosine (ddI)
• D. Pentamidine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: This patient presents with symptoms and lab findings consistent with acute pancreatitis. Cytomegalovirus is a common viral infection associated with pancreatitis. In patients with AIDS, the pancreas can be affected by various infections (e.g., cryptococcus, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, candida, Toxoplasma gondii) and medications (such as ddI, pentamidine, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, metronidazole) can also lead to acute pancreatitis. While HIV infection predisposes individuals to various opportunistic infections, in this case, the most likely cause of the acute pancreatitis is cytomegalovirus infection.

4. The client has acute kidney injury (AKI). Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention?

• A. Urine output of 50 ml in the last hour.
• B. Serum potassium of 6.2 mEq/L.
• C. Blood pressure of 150/90 mm Hg.
• D. Serum creatinine of 2.5 mg/dL.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An elevated serum potassium level of 6.2 mEq/L in a client with AKI can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, necessitating immediate intervention. Hyperkalemia is a serious complication in AKI as impaired kidney function can result in the accumulation of potassium in the blood, posing a risk of cardiac arrest. Prompt treatment to lower potassium levels is crucial to prevent cardiac complications in this situation.

5. A client with osteoporosis is being discharged home. Which instruction should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?

• A. Avoid weight-bearing exercises.
• B. Take calcium supplements with meals.
• C. Limit vitamin D intake.
• D. Increase intake of caffeine-containing beverages.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Taking calcium supplements with meals is a crucial instruction for a client with osteoporosis. Calcium absorption is enhanced when taken with food, and proper calcium intake is essential for managing osteoporosis effectively by promoting bone health and density. Avoiding weight-bearing exercises (Choice A) is incorrect because these exercises help improve bone strength. Limiting vitamin D intake (Choice C) is also incorrect as vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption. Increasing caffeine intake (Choice D) is not recommended as caffeine can interfere with calcium absorption.

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