Nursing Elites

1. A client with diabetes insipidus is being treated with desmopressin. The nurse should monitor for which of the following side effects?

• A. Hyponatremia
• B. Hypernatremia
• C. Hypokalemia
• D. Hypercalcemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hyponatremia. Desmopressin, a medication used in diabetes insipidus, can cause water retention by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys. This excess water retention can lead to dilutional hyponatremia, where sodium levels in the body become too low. Monitoring for hyponatremia is crucial to prevent complications such as neurological symptoms. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because desmopressin is not known to cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, or hypercalcemia.

2. 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.

3. Which of the following symptoms would be most concerning in a client with diabetes insipidus?

• A. Polydipsia
• B. Polyuria
• C. Nocturia
• D. Hypertension

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a client with diabetes insipidus, excessive thirst (polydipsia) and excessive urination (polyuria) are expected symptoms due to the inability to concentrate urine, leading to dilute urine production. Nocturia, waking up at night to urinate, is also common. However, hypertension is not a typical symptom of diabetes insipidus. The correct answer is D because hypertension may indicate a complication such as dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, which would require further assessment in a client with diabetes insipidus.

4. What is the mechanism of action of corticotropin (Acthar) when prescribed as replacement therapy for a male client who has undergone surgical removal of a pituitary tumor?

• A. It decreases cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) production and affects the metabolic rate of target organs.
• B. It interacts with plasma membrane receptors to inhibit enzymatic actions.
• C. It interacts with plasma membrane receptors to produce enzymatic actions that affect protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism.
• D. It regulates the threshold for water reabsorption in the kidneys.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Corticotropin (ACTH) stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete cortisol and other hormones, affecting protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism. Choice A is incorrect because corticotropin does not decrease cAMP production; instead, it stimulates enzymatic actions. Choice B is incorrect because corticotropin does not inhibit enzymatic actions but rather produces enzymatic actions. Choice D is incorrect because corticotropin's mechanism of action does not involve regulating the threshold for water reabsorption in the kidneys.

5. The client with DM is being taught about foot care. The nurse instructs the client to:

• A. Avoid hot water when bathing the feet.
• B. Apply a moisturizing lotion to the feet, especially between the toes.
• C. Use a heating pad to warm the feet if they feel cold.
• D. Go barefoot at home to allow the feet to air out.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to avoid hot water when bathing the feet. This instruction is crucial because clients with diabetes may have decreased sensation in their feet, which can put them at risk of burns from hot water. Choice B is incorrect because applying moisturizing lotion between the toes can increase moisture and promote fungal growth. Choice C is incorrect because using a heating pad can also lead to burns due to decreased sensation. Choice D is incorrect as going barefoot can increase the risk of injury and infections in clients with diabetes.

Similar Questions