Nursing Elites

1. A client with hyperthyroidism is prescribed propranolol. The nurse explains that this medication is used to:

• A. Increase thyroid hormone production
• B. Decrease thyroid hormone production
• C. Relieve symptoms such as tachycardia and anxiety
• D. Prevent weight loss

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Propranolol is a beta-blocker that works by blocking the effects of adrenaline, which helps to reduce symptoms such as tachycardia (fast heart rate) and anxiety in individuals with hyperthyroidism. Choices A and B are incorrect because propranolol does not affect thyroid hormone production; it only addresses symptoms. Choice D is incorrect because propranolol does not prevent weight loss associated with hyperthyroidism.

2. A client with hyperparathyroidism is receiving dietary instructions. Which of the following foods should the client avoid?

• A. Milk
• B. Bananas
• C. Spinach
• D. Processed meats

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In hyperparathyroidism, there are already elevated calcium levels in the body. Therefore, clients should avoid high-calcium foods like milk to prevent further increase in calcium levels. Bananas, spinach, and processed meats do not have significant calcium content and do not need to be avoided specifically in hyperparathyroidism.

3. A nurse is preparing to administer NPH insulin to a client with DM. The nurse notes that the NPH insulin vial is cloudy. The nurse should:

• A. Obtain a new vial of NPH insulin.
• B. Draw up the cloudy insulin as ordered.
• C. Shake the vial vigorously before drawing up the insulin.
• D. Warm the insulin to room temperature before administration.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to draw up the cloudy insulin as ordered. NPH insulin is inherently cloudy due to its suspension of insulin crystals. Shaking the vial vigorously can lead to denaturation of the insulin molecules, altering its efficacy. Warming NPH insulin is not necessary as it can cause breakdown of insulin molecules. The nurse should gently roll the vial between hands to mix it before drawing it up to ensure an even distribution of insulin in the suspension.

4. After undergoing a subtotal thyroidectomy, a female client develops hypothyroidism. Dr. Smith prescribes levothyroxine (Levothroid), 25 mcg P.O. daily. For which condition is levothyroxine the preferred agent?

• A. Primary hypothyroidism
• B. Graves' disease
• C. Thyrotoxicosis
• D. Euthyroidism

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Levothyroxine is the preferred agent for primary hypothyroidism because it provides the necessary replacement of thyroid hormone in patients with deficient thyroid function. Choice B, Graves' disease, is an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism and is typically treated with antithyroid medications or radioactive iodine. Choice C, thyrotoxicosis, refers to the clinical state resulting from excessive thyroid hormone action and is not typically treated with levothyroxine. Choice D, euthyroidism, describes a normal thyroid function and would not require treatment with levothyroxine.

5. A patient with acute congestive heart failure is receiving high doses of a diuretic. On assessment, the nurse notes flat neck veins, generalized muscle weakness, and diminished deep tendon reflexes. Suspecting hyponatremia, what additional signs would the nurse expect to note in this patient if hyponatremia were present?

• A. Dry skin
• B. Decreased urinary output
• C. Hyperactive bowel sounds
• D. Increased specific gravity of the urine

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a patient with hyponatremia, hyperactive bowel sounds are expected due to increased gastrointestinal motility. Dry skin (Choice A) is not a typical sign of hyponatremia. Decreased urinary output (Choice B) is more commonly associated with conditions like dehydration or renal issues, not specifically hyponatremia. Increased specific gravity of the urine (Choice D) is a sign of concentrated urine, which is not a characteristic finding in hyponatremia.

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