Nursing Elites

1. A diabetic patient who has reported burning foot pain at night receives a new prescription. Which information should the nurse teach the patient about amitriptyline (Elavil)?

• A. Amitriptyline decreases the depression caused by your foot pain.
• B. Amitriptyline helps prevent transmission of pain impulses to the brain.
• C. Amitriptyline corrects some of the blood vessel changes that cause pain.
• D. Amitriptyline improves sleep and reduces awareness of nighttime pain.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant that works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, which helps in reducing the transmission of pain impulses to the brain. Choice A is incorrect because amitriptyline primarily works on pain transmission rather than directly on depression. Choice C is inaccurate as amitriptyline's mechanism of action is not related to correcting blood vessel changes. Choice D is partially true as amitriptyline can improve sleep, but the primary mechanism related to pain relief is by preventing pain impulses from reaching the brain.

2. A 26-year-old patient with diabetes rides a bicycle to and from work every day. Which site should the nurse teach the patient to administer the morning insulin?

• A. Thigh
• B. Buttock
• C. Abdomen
• D. Upper arm

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is the abdomen. When a patient engages in physical activities like riding a bicycle, the abdomen is a suitable site for insulin administration due to the consistent absorption rate. The subcutaneous tissue in the abdomen allows for more predictable insulin absorption compared to other sites. The thigh is also a common site for insulin injection but may not be ideal for this patient due to the physical activity involved. The buttock and upper arm are not preferred sites for insulin injection as they can have variable absorption rates and may not be as convenient for self-administration.

3. Which statement to a patient newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes is correct?

• A. Complications of type 2 diabetes are less serious than those of type 1 diabetes.
• B. Insulin is not used to control blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes.
• C. Changes in diet and exercise may control blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes.
• D. Type 2 diabetes is usually diagnosed when the patient is admitted with a hyperglycemic coma.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Choice C is the correct statement to convey to a patient newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle modifications, such as changes in diet and exercise, are essential components of managing type 2 diabetes. These changes can help control blood glucose levels and improve overall health. Options A, B, and D are incorrect statements. While complications of type 2 diabetes can be serious, they are different from those of type 1 diabetes. Some patients with type 2 diabetes may require insulin therapy, but it is not true that insulin is not used at all. Type 2 diabetes is not typically diagnosed during a hyperglycemic coma, as it is usually identified through routine screenings or symptoms unrelated to a coma.

4. As a new nurse on a pediatric unit, you must work nights and you have minimal time to spend with your children. Your colleague observes that you speak abruptly with parents and you become easily annoyed when the patients cry or when they are demanding. You realize you are becoming increasingly more distressed and that you have no time with your children and, as a result you: (Select all that apply.)

• A. Express negative comments to colleagues about patients and parents who annoy you.
• B. Ask the nurse manager to have a schedule with an equal number of day and night shifts so that you can be with your children.
• C. Call off sick as frequently as you can without violating policies so that you have more time with your children.
• D. Minimize your communication with patients and parents so you do not offend them.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Asking the nurse manager for a schedule with an equal number of day and night shifts is a proactive and constructive approach to address the issue of having minimal time with your children. This solution aims to balance work and personal life effectively. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Expressing negative comments about patients and parents (Choice A) is unprofessional and can create a negative work environment. Calling off sick frequently (Choice C) is irresponsible and violates work policies, leading to potential disciplinary actions. Minimizing communication with patients and parents (Choice D) is not a suitable approach as effective communication is essential in healthcare to provide optimal care and support to patients and their families.

5. Which of the following best defines the role of a nurse practitioner (NP)?

• A. Provide direct patient care under the supervision of a physician
• B. Diagnose and treat medical conditions independently
• C. Assist with administrative tasks in a healthcare setting
• D. Specialize in a specific area of nursing practice

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Diagnose and treat medical conditions independently.' Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who are qualified to diagnose and treat medical conditions without direct supervision from a physician. Choice A is incorrect because NPs have the autonomy to provide care independently. Choice C is incorrect as NPs focus on clinical care rather than administrative tasks. Choice D is incorrect as specializing in a specific area of nursing practice refers to a different aspect of advanced nursing roles, such as becoming a clinical nurse specialist.

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