Nursing Elites

1. A client is taking haloperidol. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Weight gain
• B. Dry mouth
• C. Tremors
• D. Tardive dyskinesia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Tardive dyskinesia. Tardive dyskinesia is a serious side effect associated with the long-term use of haloperidol. It is characterized by involuntary movements of the face, tongue, and extremities. Early detection is crucial as tardive dyskinesia may be irreversible and should be reported promptly to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because weight gain, dry mouth, and tremors are common side effects of haloperidol but are not as concerning as tardive dyskinesia. While they should still be monitored and managed, tardive dyskinesia requires immediate attention due to its potentially irreversible nature.

2. A client receives discharge teaching for a new prescription of lithium. Which instruction should be included?

• A. Take the medication with food.
• B. Increase your intake of sodium.
• C. Monitor for signs of hypercalcemia.
• D. Avoid consuming dairy products.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction to include when a client receives discharge teaching for a new prescription of lithium is to increase their intake of sodium. Lithium can lead to decreased sodium levels, putting the individual at risk of developing hyponatremia. By increasing sodium intake, the client can counteract this risk, maintain a proper sodium balance, and prevent complications. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because taking lithium with food, monitoring for signs of hypercalcemia, and avoiding dairy products are not directly related to managing the side effects or risks associated with lithium therapy.

3. After a client with a history of myocardial infarction (MI) is prescribed aspirin, which instruction should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?

• A. Take the aspirin with food to prevent gastrointestinal upset
• B. Discontinue the aspirin if you experience ringing in your ears
• C. Take the aspirin at bedtime to minimize side effects
• D. Avoid taking aspirin if you are also taking other NSAIDs

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction is to take aspirin with food to prevent gastrointestinal upset. Aspirin can irritate the stomach lining, leading to potential gastrointestinal issues. Taking it with food helps reduce this risk by providing a protective layer in the stomach. This is a common recommendation to minimize the risk of gastrointestinal side effects when taking aspirin. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B is not a typical reason to discontinue aspirin, as ringing in the ears is not a common side effect of aspirin. Choice C does not have a direct correlation to minimizing side effects of aspirin. Choice D is inaccurate because while caution should be exercised when taking aspirin with other NSAIDs due to the increased risk of bleeding, it does not mean aspirin should be entirely avoided if other NSAIDs are being taken.

4. A client with peripheral artery disease (PAD) complains of pain in the legs while walking. Which instruction should the LPN/LVN reinforce to help alleviate the client's symptoms?

• A. Walk until the pain becomes severe, then rest.
• B. Perform leg exercises while sitting.
• C. Elevate the legs on pillows while resting.
• D. Take frequent breaks and walk shorter distances.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to take frequent breaks and walk shorter distances. This instruction helps alleviate symptoms in clients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) by allowing them to manage pain and discomfort more effectively. Option A is incorrect as waiting for the pain to become severe before resting can exacerbate symptoms. Option B, performing leg exercises while sitting, may not directly address the issue of pain during walking. Option C, elevating the legs on pillows while resting, is beneficial for other conditions like edema but may not specifically help alleviate pain while walking in PAD clients.

5. The nurse is caring for a client with coronary artery disease (CAD) who reports chest pain. The nurse administers nitroglycerin as prescribed. What is the next priority action?

• A. Obtain a 12-lead ECG
• B. Monitor the client's blood pressure
• C. Notify the healthcare provider
• D. Administer a second dose of nitroglycerin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: After administering nitroglycerin, the next priority action is to monitor the client's blood pressure. Nitroglycerin can cause vasodilation and subsequent hypotension, so it is crucial to assess the client's blood pressure to prevent complications and ensure safety. Obtaining a 12-lead ECG may be necessary but monitoring blood pressure takes precedence to detect and manage potential hypotension. Notifying the healthcare provider can be done after ensuring the client's stability. Administering a second dose of nitroglycerin without assessing the client's response and blood pressure can lead to further hypotension.

Similar Questions