Nursing Elites

1. A client with hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine (Synthroid). Which instruction should the nurse provide?

• A. Take the medication with a meal.
• B. Take the medication at bedtime.
• C. Take the medication on an empty stomach.
• D. Take the medication with an antacid.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed levothyroxine (Synthroid) is to take the medication on an empty stomach. This ensures optimal absorption of levothyroxine. Taking it with a meal can interfere with absorption due to food interactions. Taking it at bedtime may lead to inconsistent absorption as it should be taken at the same time every day in the morning. Taking it with an antacid can reduce the absorption of levothyroxine, making it less effective.

2. In planning the turning schedule for a bedfast client, it is most important for the nurse to consider what assessment finding?

• A. 4+ pitting edema of both lower extremities.
• B. A Braden risk assessment scale rating score of ten.
• C. Warm, dry skin with a fever of 100° F.
• D. Hypoactive bowel sounds with infrequent bowel movements.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A low Braden score indicates a high risk for pressure ulcers, making regular turning crucial to prevent skin breakdown.

3. A client receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) through a central line suddenly develops dyspnea, chest pain, and a drop in blood pressure. What should the nurse do first?

• A. Stop the TPN infusion.
• B. Notify the healthcare provider.
• C. Place the client in Trendelenburg position.
• D. Administer oxygen at 2 liters/minute.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Placing the client in Trendelenburg position should be the initial action as it can help manage a suspected air embolism, a potential complication of TPN administration. This position helps trap air in the apex of the atrium, reducing the risk of air reaching the pulmonary circulation and causing further harm. Once the client is in a safe position, further actions such as stopping the TPN infusion, notifying the healthcare provider, and administering oxygen can be taken as appropriate.

4. A patient with type 1 diabetes is prescribed insulin glargine. What is the primary characteristic of this insulin?

• A. Rapid-acting
• B. Intermediate-acting
• C. Long-acting
• D. Short-acting

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Insulin glargine is classified as a long-acting insulin. It is designed to provide a consistent level of insulin over approximately 24 hours, helping to keep blood glucose levels stable throughout the day. This long duration of action makes it suitable for basal insulin replacement in patients with type 1 diabetes, providing a background level of insulin to mimic the body's natural release of insulin between meals and overnight.

5. A client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed methotrexate. Which instruction should the nurse include in the client's teaching?

• A. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
• B. Take the medication with a full meal.
• C. Increase your intake of high-fiber foods.
• D. Avoid exposure to sunlight.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for the client prescribed with methotrexate is to avoid alcohol while taking this medication. Methotrexate can cause liver toxicity, and alcohol consumption can further exacerbate this risk. It is crucial for patients to abstain from alcohol to prevent adverse effects on the liver. Therefore, instructing the client to avoid alcohol is a key component of safe medication use and management of rheumatoid arthritis.

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