a client with psoriasis is prescribed topical corticosteroids what side effect should the nurse monitor for
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Nursing Elites

HESI RN

HESI RN Exit Exam Capstone

1. A client with psoriasis is prescribed topical corticosteroids. What side effect should the nurse monitor for?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. When a client with psoriasis is prescribed topical corticosteroids, the nurse should monitor for signs of increased redness or itching. This is because topical corticosteroids can cause skin thinning and increased redness if overused. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because weight gain, sensitivity to sunlight, hair loss, and excessive bruising are not typically associated with the use of topical corticosteroids.

2. The nurse administers an antibiotic for a respiratory tract infection. To evaluate the medication's effectiveness, which laboratory values should the nurse monitor?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: White blood cell count and sputum culture. Monitoring white blood cell count and sputum cultures is essential to assess the effectiveness of the antibiotic in treating the respiratory tract infection. Changes in white blood cell count can indicate the body's response to infection, while sputum cultures help determine if the antibiotic is targeting the specific pathogens causing the infection. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because platelet count, red blood cell count, hemoglobin A1c, glucose tolerance test, arterial blood gases, and serum electrolytes are not directly related to evaluating the effectiveness of an antibiotic in treating a respiratory tract infection.

3. A client with dyspnea is being admitted to the medical unit. To best prepare for the client's arrival, the nurse should ensure that the client's bed is in which position?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Fowler's position (head elevated at 45-60 degrees) improves oxygenation by expanding the lungs, making it the best position for clients with dyspnea. Supine or prone positions restrict lung expansion, and Trendelenburg position (head down) can exacerbate breathing difficulties by increasing pressure on the lungs and diaphragm.

4. A client with a history of type 2 diabetes is admitted with hyperglycemia. What is the nurse's priority action?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to check the client's blood glucose level. This is the priority action when dealing with a client admitted with hyperglycemia. Checking the blood glucose level helps determine the severity of hyperglycemia and guides further treatment. Administering insulin or fluids or monitoring intake and output are important interventions but should come after assessing the blood glucose level to inform the most appropriate course of action.

5. A client presents to the labor and delivery unit with a report of leaking fluid that is greenish-brown vaginal discharge. Which action should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Greenish-brown discharge likely indicates meconium in the amniotic fluid, which poses a risk to the fetus. Continuous fetal monitoring should be initiated immediately to assess for signs of fetal distress. Meconium-stained amniotic fluid can lead to meconium aspiration syndrome in the newborn, so timely monitoring is crucial. Checking the amniotic fluid pH can help confirm the presence of meconium but is not the priority over fetal monitoring. Assessing maternal vital signs is important but secondary to monitoring the fetal well-being in this urgent situation. Notifying the healthcare provider can follow once the immediate fetal assessment is underway.

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