Nursing Elites

1. A client with Herpes Zoster (shingles) on the thorax tells the nurse about having difficulty sleeping. What is the probable cause of this problem?

• A. Frequent cough
• B. Pain
• C. Nocturia
• D. Dyspnea

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pain. Pain is a common and significant symptom of Herpes Zoster (shingles) that can result in difficulty sleeping. The pain associated with shingles can be intense and persistent, making it challenging for the client to find a comfortable position to sleep. Nocturia (choice C), which is excessive urination during the night, is not directly related to difficulty sleeping in this context. While both frequent cough (choice A) and dyspnea (choice D) can cause sleep disturbances, in a client with Herpes Zoster on the thorax, pain is the most probable cause of sleep difficulty.

2. When planning activities for a socialization group for older residents of a long-term facility, what information would be most useful for the nurse?

• A. The length of time each resident has resided at the facility.
• B. A brief description of each resident's family life.
• C. The age of each resident.
• D. The usual activity patterns of each resident.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most useful information for the nurse when planning activities for a socialization group for older residents of a long-term facility would be the usual activity patterns of each resident. An older person's level of activity is a determining factor in adjustment to aging, as described by the Activity Theory of Aging. By understanding the usual activity patterns of each resident, the nurse can tailor activities that cater to their interests and abilities, promoting social engagement and overall well-being. The other options, such as the length of time residing at the facility, a brief description of family life, or the age of each resident, may provide some insights but do not directly relate to planning activities that support adjustment to aging and socialization within the group.

3. The nurse is caring for a patient who is taking trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX). The nurse learns that the patient takes an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. To monitor for drug interactions, the nurse will request an order for which laboratory test(s)?

• A. A complete blood count
• B. BUN and creatinine
• C. Electrolytes
• D. Glucose

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'C. Electrolytes.' When trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) is taken with an ACE inhibitor, there is an increased risk of hyperkalemia due to the combined effects on potassium levels. Monitoring electrolytes, specifically potassium, is essential to detect and manage this potential drug interaction. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because while they are important tests in general patient care, they are not specifically indicated to monitor for the drug interaction between TMP-SMX and ACE inhibitors.

4. What is the most common side effect of diuretics such as furosemide (Lasix)?

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

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Hypokalemia.' Diuretics like furosemide increase the excretion of potassium, leading to hypokalemia as a common side effect. Hyperkalemia (choice B) is the opposite condition characterized by high potassium levels, which is not typically associated with furosemide use. Hypernatremia (choice C) is increased sodium levels, while hyponatremia (choice D) is decreased sodium levels, neither of which are the most common side effects of furosemide. Therefore, choice A is the best answer.

5. Which of the following is a characteristic symptom of hypothyroidism?

• A. Fatigue.
• B. Weight gain.
• C. Cold intolerance.
• D. Heat intolerance.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Cold intolerance.' Hypothyroidism is associated with a decreased metabolic rate, leading to a decreased ability to regulate body temperature and a feeling of being cold. Fatigue (Choice A) and weight gain (Choice B) are also common symptoms of hypothyroidism due to the overall slowing down of bodily functions. Heat intolerance (Choice D) is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism, where the body's metabolism is overactive, leading to increased heat production.

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