Nursing Elites

1. A client with heart failure is receiving digoxin. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Heart rate of 78/min.
• B. Vision changes.
• C. Respiratory rate of 16/min.
• D. Blood pressure of 120/80 mm Hg.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Vision changes. Vision changes are a classic sign of digoxin toxicity and should be reported immediately to the provider for further evaluation and management. A heart rate of 78/min, a respiratory rate of 16/min, and a blood pressure of 120/80 mm Hg are within normal ranges and are not typically associated with digoxin toxicity. Therefore, they would not be the priority findings to report in this situation.

2. A client is 1 day postoperative following abdominal surgery. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent respiratory complications?

• A. Instruct the client to avoid deep breathing exercises
• B. Encourage the use of an incentive spirometer
• C. Assist the client with ambulation every 2 hours
• D. Apply sequential compression devices (SCDs)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Encouraging the use of an incentive spirometer is crucial for preventing respiratory complications postoperatively, such as atelectasis. Instructing the client to avoid deep breathing exercises (choice A) is incorrect as deep breathing exercises help prevent respiratory complications. Assisting with ambulation every 2 hours (choice C) is important for preventing other postoperative complications but not specifically respiratory ones. Applying sequential compression devices (SCDs) (choice D) is beneficial for preventing deep vein thrombosis but not directly related to respiratory complications.

3. A nurse is caring for a client who has a new prescription for levothyroxine. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor to determine the effectiveness of the medication?

• A. Calcium
• B. Sodium
• C. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
• D. Magnesium

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Monitoring TSH levels is crucial to assess the effectiveness of levothyroxine in clients with hypothyroidism. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. In hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland is underactive, administering levothyroxine helps to normalize thyroid hormone levels. Monitoring TSH levels allows the healthcare provider to adjust the levothyroxine dosage to ensure that thyroid hormone levels are within the therapeutic range. Choices A, B, and D (Calcium, Sodium, and Magnesium) are not directly related to assessing the effectiveness of levothyroxine therapy in hypothyroidism and would not provide relevant information regarding the medication's efficacy.

4. A healthcare provider is providing dietary teaching to a client who has a new diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Which of the following foods should the healthcare provider instruct the client to avoid?

• A. Lean cuts of pork.
• B. Low-fat yogurt.
• C. White bread.
• D. Oatmeal.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, oatmeal. Oatmeal contains insoluble fiber, which can exacerbate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Choices A, B, and C are not typically problematic for individuals with IBS. Lean cuts of pork, low-fat yogurt, and white bread are generally well-tolerated and may even be recommended as part of a balanced diet for individuals with IBS.

5. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who is postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Cross your legs when sitting to increase circulation.
• B. Bend at the waist when picking up objects.
• C. Avoid crossing your legs when sitting.
• D. Avoid using a raised toilet seat.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Avoid crossing your legs when sitting.' After a total hip arthroplasty, it is important for clients to avoid crossing their legs to prevent complications such as dislocation. Crossing the legs can put strain on the new hip joint, increasing the risk of dislocation. Choice A is incorrect as crossing legs can be harmful. Choice B is incorrect as bending at the waist can strain the hip joint, leading to complications. Choice D is incorrect as using a raised toilet seat is recommended after hip surgery to prevent excessive bending at the hip joint.

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