Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is assessing a client for signs of heart failure. Which of the following findings should the nurse monitor?

• A. Decreased heart rate
• B. Peripheral edema
• C. Increased energy levels
• D. Hyperglycemia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Peripheral edema. Peripheral edema, the accumulation of fluid causing swelling in the extremities, is a classic sign of heart failure due to fluid overload. This occurs because the heart's reduced pumping efficiency leads to fluid backup in the circulatory system. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Decreased heart rate is not typically associated with heart failure; instead, tachycardia or an increased heart rate may be observed. Increased energy levels are not an expected finding in heart failure, as this condition often causes fatigue and weakness. Hyperglycemia is not a direct sign of heart failure; however, it can be present in individuals with uncontrolled diabetes or as a result of certain treatments, but it is not a specific indicator of heart failure.

2. A client has a new prescription for metformin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Take the medication at bedtime
• B. Monitor your blood glucose level before each meal
• C. Stop taking the medication if you develop muscle pain
• D. You may experience diarrhea with this medication

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'You may experience diarrhea with this medication.' Diarrhea is a common side effect of metformin, particularly when initiating the medication. It is important for clients to be aware of this potential side effect. Option A is incorrect because metformin is usually taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Option B is not directly related to metformin use. Option C is incorrect as muscle pain is not a common side effect of metformin and does not warrant stopping the medication.

3. Which of the following interventions is most appropriate for a client with hyperemesis gravidarum?

• A. Encourage high-calorie meals
• B. Administer intravenous fluids
• C. Provide frequent small meals
• D. Limit fluid intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Administer intravenous fluids. Hyperemesis gravidarum is severe, persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. The priority intervention is to administer intravenous fluids to maintain hydration. Encouraging high-calorie meals (Choice A) may exacerbate symptoms due to increased gastric stimulation. Providing frequent small meals (Choice C) may not be effective in severe cases where continuous vomiting occurs. Limiting fluid intake (Choice D) is contraindicated in hyperemesis gravidarum as dehydration is a significant concern.

4. A nurse is teaching a client with newly diagnosed hypertension about lifestyle changes. Which of the following recommendations should the nurse make?

• A. Limit sodium intake to 3,000 mg per day.
• B. Exercise for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
• C. Drink no more than two alcoholic drinks per day.
• D. Increase fluid intake to at least 3 liters per day.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Exercise for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.' Regular exercise, especially aerobic activity, is known to help lower blood pressure and should be included in lifestyle changes for managing hypertension. Choice A is incorrect because the recommended sodium intake for individuals with hypertension is usually lower than 3,000 mg per day. Choice C is incorrect as it is advisable to limit alcohol intake to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. Choice D is incorrect because increasing fluid intake to 3 liters per day may not be necessary and could be harmful in some cases, depending on the individual's health status.

5. A nurse is caring for a client in preterm labor who is receiving magnesium sulfate by continuous IV infusion. Which of the following client findings indicates medication toxicity?

• A. Blood glucose of 150 mg/dL
• B. Urine output of 20 mL per hour
• C. Systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg
• D. BUN 20 mg/dL

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A urine output of 20 mL per hour is low and indicates renal insufficiency, a sign of magnesium sulfate toxicity. The medication is excreted by the kidneys, so toxicity can occur if renal function declines. Blood glucose of 150 mg/dL is within normal range and not indicative of magnesium sulfate toxicity. A systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg is elevated but not specifically related to magnesium sulfate toxicity. A BUN level of 20 mg/dL is also within normal limits and not a sign of medication toxicity.

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