Nursing Elites

1. A male client with type 1 diabetes mellitus has a highly elevated glycosylated hemoglobin (Hb) test result. In discussing the result with the client, nurse Sharmaine would be most accurate in stating:

• A. The test needs to be repeated following a 12-hour fast.
• B. It appears you aren't following the prescribed diabetic diet.
• C. It tells us about your sugar control for the last 3 months.
• D. Your insulin regimen needs to be significantly altered.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) reflects average blood glucose levels over the past 3 months. This test is used to assess long-term blood sugar control in individuals with diabetes. Choice A is incorrect because fasting is not required for an HbA1c test. Choice B is judgmental and not supported by the information provided. Choice D is not the most accurate statement to make based on the HbA1c result; adjusting insulin would depend on a more comprehensive assessment of the client's overall diabetes management.

2. Which of the following actions could be considered a breach of patient confidentiality?

• A. Discussing patient information with other healthcare providers in a private setting.
• B. Sharing patient information with family members without the patient's consent.
• C. Discussing patient information in public areas where others may overhear.
• D. Sharing patient information in a private, secure setting with other healthcare providers involved in the patient's care.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Discussing patient information in public areas where others may overhear is considered a breach of patient confidentiality because it compromises the privacy and confidentiality of the patient's health information. Choices A and D are not breaches of confidentiality as discussing patient information with other healthcare providers in a private setting or in a private, secure setting with those involved in the patient's care is appropriate. Choice B is also incorrect as sharing patient information with family members without the patient's consent could potentially be a breach of privacy but is not the best answer in this context.

3. After undergoing a subtotal thyroidectomy, a female client develops hypothyroidism. Dr. Smith prescribes levothyroxine (Levothroid), 25 mcg P.O. daily. For which condition is levothyroxine the preferred agent?

• A. Primary hypothyroidism
• B. Graves' disease
• C. Thyrotoxicosis
• D. Euthyroidism

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Levothyroxine is the preferred agent for primary hypothyroidism because it provides the necessary replacement of thyroid hormone in patients with deficient thyroid function. Choice B, Graves' disease, is an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism and is typically treated with antithyroid medications or radioactive iodine. Choice C, thyrotoxicosis, refers to the clinical state resulting from excessive thyroid hormone action and is not typically treated with levothyroxine. Choice D, euthyroidism, describes a normal thyroid function and would not require treatment with levothyroxine.

4. Which of the following is a priority nursing diagnosis for a client with Addison's disease?

• A. Fluid volume deficit
• B. Risk for infection
• C. Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements
• D. Disturbed body image

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing diagnosis for a client with Addison's disease is 'Fluid volume deficit.' Addison's disease is characterized by adrenal insufficiency, resulting in decreased aldosterone production. Aldosterone plays a key role in sodium and water retention in the body. With its deficiency, there is an increased risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, leading to fluid volume deficit. While infection risk, nutrition issues, and body image disturbances are also important considerations for holistic care, addressing the fluid volume deficit takes precedence due to the immediate physiological impact on the client's health and well-being.

5. A client with diabetes mellitus is being educated on the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia. Which of the following symptoms should the client be instructed to report immediately?

• A. Shakiness
• B. Sweating
• C. Confusion
• D. Increased thirst

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Confusion is a critical symptom of hypoglycemia that indicates the brain is not receiving enough glucose, potentially leading to serious complications like unconsciousness or seizures. Immediate reporting of confusion is essential for prompt intervention to prevent worsening of hypoglycemia. Shakiness and sweating are early warning signs of hypoglycemia but may not always require immediate intervention. Increased thirst is a symptom commonly associated with hyperglycemia rather than hypoglycemia.

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