Nursing Elites

1. A client with Addison's disease is receiving corticosteroid therapy. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following potential side effects?

• A. Hypoglycemia
• B. Hypertension
• C. Weight loss
• D. Hyperkalemia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client with Addison's disease is receiving corticosteroid therapy, the nurse should monitor for hypertension as a potential side effect. Corticosteroids can lead to hypertension by causing fluid retention and increased blood volume. Hypoglycemia (Choice A) is not a common side effect of corticosteroid therapy; instead, hyperglycemia is more likely. Weight loss (Choice C) is not a typical side effect of corticosteroid therapy; in fact, weight gain is more common due to fluid retention and increased appetite. Hyperkalemia (Choice D) is a potential side effect of Addison's disease itself due to adrenal insufficiency, but it is not directly caused by corticosteroid therapy.

2. What is the nurse's responsibility when dealing with an impaired colleague?

• A. The nurse should report the colleague to a supervisor and follow the institution's policy for addressing impaired practice.
• B. The nurse should confront the colleague directly and offer support to seek help for the impairment.
• C. Nonmaleficence
• D. The nurse should ignore the colleague's behavior and focus on their own responsibilities.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a nurse encounters an impaired colleague, the appropriate action is to report the behavior to a supervisor and follow the institution's policy for addressing impaired practice. This ensures patient safety and upholds professional standards. Choice B is incorrect because confronting the colleague directly may not be appropriate or effective in addressing the issue, and the colleague may need more structured assistance. Choice C is a principle of ethical practice but does not directly address the specific situation of dealing with an impaired colleague. Choice D is incorrect because ignoring the colleague's behavior could potentially compromise patient safety and is not in line with professional responsibility.

3. A client is receiving levothyroxine for hypothyroidism. Which of the following findings would indicate that the medication is effective?

• A. Decreased heart rate
• B. Increased weight
• C. Increased energy levels
• D. Decreased appetite

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Increased energy levels. When a client with hypothyroidism is receiving levothyroxine, increased energy levels indicate that thyroid hormone levels are being normalized, which is a positive response to treatment. This improvement reflects the effectiveness of the medication in addressing the underlying hypothyroidism. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Decreased heart rate and decreased appetite may be symptoms of hypothyroidism and would not necessarily indicate the effectiveness of levothyroxine. Increased weight could also be a symptom of hypothyroidism and does not directly reflect the medication's effectiveness.

4. The healthcare provider is caring for a client with Cushing's syndrome. Which of the following nursing interventions is appropriate?

• A. Monitor blood glucose levels
• B. Restrict fluid intake
• C. Administer potassium supplements
• D. Encourage a high-protein diet

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Clients with Cushing's syndrome are at risk for hyperglycemia due to the effects of cortisol on glucose metabolism. Monitoring blood glucose levels is crucial to detect and manage hyperglycemia promptly. Restricting fluid intake (choice B) is not necessary unless specifically indicated for another condition, as clients with Cushing's syndrome are prone to fluid imbalances. Administering potassium supplements (choice C) is not appropriate as clients with Cushing's syndrome often have elevated potassium levels due to the effects of cortisol. Encouraging a high-protein diet (choice D) is not recommended as clients with Cushing's syndrome should focus on a balanced diet to manage their condition effectively.

5. A healthcare professional is reviewing the medication orders for a client with hypothyroidism. Which of the following medications should the healthcare professional question?

• A. Levothyroxine
• B. Amiodarone
• C. Calcium supplements
• D. Aspirin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Amiodarone. Amiodarone can affect thyroid function and potentially worsen hypothyroidism, so its use should be carefully considered or questioned in clients with this condition. Levothyroxine (Choice A) is the mainstay therapy for hypothyroidism and should not be questioned in this scenario. Calcium supplements (Choice C) are not typically contraindicated in clients with hypothyroidism and may be needed if there is a deficiency. Aspirin (Choice D) is not directly related to thyroid function and is not a medication that would typically be questioned in a client with hypothyroidism.

Similar Questions