Nursing Elites

1. A client with liver dysfunction is having difficulty with protein metabolism. The nurse anticipates that the results of which of the following serum laboratory studies will be elevated?

• A. Lactic acid
• B. Ammonia
• C. Albumin
• D. Lactase

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During deamination of proteins, the liver splits the amino group from the carbon-containing compound, which results in the formation of ammonia and a carbon residue. The liver then converts the toxic ammonia substance into urea, which can be excreted by the kidneys. Clients with liver dysfunction may have high serum ammonia levels as a result.

2. Which of the following symptoms would a client in the early stages of peritonitis exhibit?

• A. Abdominal distention
• B. Abdominal pain and rigidity
• C. Hyperactive bowel sounds
• D. Right upper quadrant pain

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the early stages of peritonitis, the client would exhibit abdominal pain and rigidity due to inflammation.

3. A 30-year-old woman is admitted to the hospital with complaints of severe abdominal cramping and diarrhea. The nurse evaluates the effectiveness of the patient's intravenous therapy. Which of the following laboratory tests BEST reflects hydration status?

• A. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate.
• B. White blood cell count.
• C. Hematocrit.
• D. Serum glucose.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Hematocrit is the best indicator of hydration status because it reflects the proportion of red blood cells in the blood. An increased hematocrit indicates dehydration, as the blood becomes more concentrated due to fluid loss. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (Choice A) is a nonspecific marker of inflammation, not hydration status. White blood cell count (Choice B) is an indicator of infection or inflammation. Serum glucose (Choice D) is used to monitor blood sugar levels, not hydration status.

4. A female client complains of gnawing epigastric pain for a few hours after meals. At times, when the pain is severe, vomiting occurs. Specific tests are indicated to rule out:

• A. Cancer of the stomach
• B. Peptic ulcer disease
• C. Chronic gastritis
• D. Pylorospasm

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Specific tests are indicated to rule out cancer of the stomach when a client complains of gnawing epigastric pain and vomiting after meals.

5. Before bowel surgery, Lee is to administer enemas until clear. During administration, he complains of intestinal cramps. What do you do next?

• A. Discontinue the procedure.
• B. Lower the height of the enema container.
• C. Complete the procedure as quickly as possible.
• D. Continue administration of the enema as ordered without making any adjustments.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: If a patient complains of intestinal cramps during an enema, lowering the height of the enema container can help reduce discomfort.

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