Nursing Elites

1. A client with schizophrenia is prescribed haloperidol (Haldol). The nurse should monitor the client for which potential side effect?

• A. Tardive dyskinesia.
• B. Orthostatic hypotension.
• C. Photosensitivity.
• D. Hyperglycemia.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tardive dyskinesia. Haloperidol (Haldol) is an antipsychotic medication that can lead to tardive dyskinesia, a side effect characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements of the face and body. Monitoring for this side effect is crucial to provide timely interventions and prevent further complications.

2. A 48-year-old woman presents with fatigue, pruritus, and jaundice. She has a history of ulcerative colitis. Laboratory tests reveal elevated bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase. What is the most likely diagnosis?

• A. Hepatitis B
• B. Primary biliary cirrhosis
• C. Primary sclerosing cholangitis
• D. Autoimmune hepatitis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The combination of symptoms (fatigue, pruritus, jaundice) along with a history of ulcerative colitis and elevated bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase levels suggests primary sclerosing cholangitis. Primary sclerosing cholangitis is commonly associated with inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis. It is characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the bile ducts, leading to cholestasis and elevated alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin levels.

3. A 45-year-old woman presents with fatigue, weight gain, and constipation. Laboratory tests reveal low TSH and high free T4 levels. What is the most likely diagnosis?

• A. Hypothyroidism
• B. Hyperthyroidism
• C. Thyroiditis
• D. Thyroid cancer

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The presentation of low TSH and high free T4 levels is characteristic of hyperthyroidism, which is consistent with the symptoms of fatigue, weight gain, and constipation described in the case. In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormone leading to a hypermetabolic state, which can manifest with these symptoms.

4. A client with hypothyroidism is started on levothyroxine (Synthroid). Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I will take this medication every morning before breakfast.
• B. I should have my thyroid levels checked regularly.
• C. If I lose weight, I may need an increased dose.
• D. I can stop taking this medication once my symptoms improve.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Levothyroxine is typically a lifelong therapy for hypothyroidism. It should not be discontinued even if symptoms improve because the medication helps replace the deficient thyroid hormone. Stopping the medication prematurely can lead to a recurrence of symptoms and potential complications. Patients must understand the importance of continuous levothyroxine therapy and the necessity of regular follow-up with their healthcare provider to monitor thyroid levels and adjust the dosage as needed.

5. A client with severe anemia is being treated with a blood transfusion. Which assessment finding indicates a transfusion reaction?

• A. Elevated blood pressure.
• B. Fever and chills.
• C. Increased urine output.
• D. Bradycardia.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Fever and chills are classic signs of a transfusion reaction. These symptoms indicate that the body is having a response to the transfused blood, possibly due to incompatibility or an immune reaction. Elevated blood pressure (choice A) is not a typical sign of a transfusion reaction. Increased urine output (choice C) and bradycardia (choice D) are also not characteristic signs of a transfusion reaction. It is crucial to recognize symptoms of a transfusion reaction promptly to prevent further complications and ensure appropriate management.

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