Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is assessing a client who is postoperative following a thyroidectomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Serum calcium level of 8 mg/dL.
• B. Urine output of 60 mL/hr.
• C. Heart rate of 110/min.
• D. Temperature of 37.5°C (99.5°F).

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. A heart rate of 110/min is elevated and may indicate hypocalcemia, a potential complication following a thyroidectomy. Elevated heart rate can be a sign of hypocalcemia due to the close relationship between calcium levels and cardiac function. Option A, serum calcium level of 8 mg/dL, is within the normal range (8.5-10.5 mg/dL) and would not be a cause for concern post-thyroidectomy. Option B, urine output of 60 mL/hr, is within the normal range for urine output and not typically a priority finding post-thyroidectomy. Option D, a temperature of 37.5°C (99.5°F), is slightly elevated but not a critical finding post-thyroidectomy unless accompanied by other symptoms.

2. A client with a new diagnosis of hypertension is receiving discharge teaching. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will take my medication only when I feel dizzy.
• B. I will check my blood pressure at least once a week.
• C. I will limit my saturated fat intake to 7% of daily calories.
• D. I will take my medication only when I have symptoms.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because limiting saturated fat intake to 7% of daily calories is a crucial component of the dietary management for hypertension. This dietary modification helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because medication adherence should not be based on symptoms like dizziness. Choice B is inadequate as blood pressure monitoring should be more frequent, preferably daily, for effective management of hypertension. Choice D is incorrect because medication for hypertension should be taken consistently as prescribed, not just when symptoms occur.

3. A nurse is assessing a client who is receiving magnesium sulfate for preeclampsia. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Respiratory rate 16/min.
• B. Blood pressure 118/78 mm Hg.
• C. Urinary output of 30 mL/hr.
• D. Absent deep-tendon reflexes.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Absent deep-tendon reflexes indicate magnesium toxicity and should be reported immediately. Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent seizures in clients with preeclampsia, but toxicity can lead to serious complications, including respiratory depression and loss of deep-tendon reflexes. Choices A, B, and C are within normal limits and expected findings in a client receiving magnesium sulfate for preeclampsia, so they do not require immediate reporting.

4. A nurse is preparing discharge information for a client who has type 2 diabetes mellitus. Which resource should the nurse provide?

• A. Personal blogs about managing diabetes medications.
• B. Food exchange lists for meal planning from the American Diabetes Association.
• C. Diabetes medication information from the Physicians' Desk Reference.
• D. Food label recommendations from the Institute of Medicine.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Food exchange lists for meal planning from the American Diabetes Association. Food exchange lists provide structured meal planning for individuals with diabetes, helping them make healthier food choices and manage their condition effectively. Choice A is incorrect because personal blogs may not provide accurate and reliable information on managing diabetes and medications. Choice C is incorrect as diabetes medication information may not be directly related to meal planning and dietary management. Choice D is incorrect because food label recommendations from the Institute of Medicine may not specifically cater to the dietary needs and meal planning guidelines recommended for individuals with diabetes.

5. A community health nurse is assessing an adolescent who is pregnant. Which of the following assessments is the nurse's priority?

• A. Social relationships with peers.
• B. Plans for attending school while pregnant.
• C. Eligibility for Medicaid.
• D. Understanding of infant care.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Understanding of infant care. When assessing a pregnant adolescent, the priority is to ensure that she has the necessary knowledge and skills to care for her newborn. This assessment is crucial in promoting the health and well-being of both the adolescent mother and her baby. Option A, social relationships with peers, though important, is not the priority during this assessment. Option B, plans for attending school while pregnant, is also important but does not take precedence over ensuring the adolescent's understanding of infant care. Option C, eligibility for Medicaid, is important for accessing healthcare services but is not the priority assessment in this scenario.

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