Nursing Elites

1. A client is prescribed calcium gluconate after thyroidectomy. The medication is most likely prescribed to:

• A. Treat thyroid storm.
• B. Prevent cardiac irritability.
• C. Treat hypocalcemic tetany.
• D. Stimulate the release of parathyroid hormone.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After a thyroidectomy, the parathyroid glands can be inadvertently removed or damaged, leading to a decrease in calcium levels and potentially causing hypocalcemic tetany. Calcium gluconate is given to supplement calcium levels and prevent or treat hypocalcemia-related symptoms, such as muscle spasms and tetany.

2. A client is diagnosed with pulmonary embolism and is to be treated with streptokinase (Streptase). A nurse would report which priority data collection finding to the registered nurse before initiating this therapy?

• A. Adventitious breath sounds
• B. Temperature of 99.4°F orally
• C. Blood pressure of 198/110 mm Hg
• D. Respiratory rate of 28 breaths/min

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Streptokinase therapy is contraindicated in severe uncontrolled hypertension due to the risk of cerebral hemorrhage. A blood pressure of 198/110 mm Hg indicates severe hypertension, which needs to be addressed before initiating streptokinase to prevent potential complications.

3. A client has been prescribed furosemide (Lasix), and the nurse is monitoring for adverse effects associated with this medication. Which of the following should the nurse recognize as a potential adverse effect? Select one that doesn't apply.

• A. Nausea
• B. Tinnitus
• C. Hypotension
• D. Hypokalemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to adverse effects such as tinnitus, hypotension, and hypokalemia. While nausea is a common side effect of many medications, it is not typically associated with furosemide. Therefore, the nurse should recognize nausea as a potential adverse effect that doesn't apply to furosemide.

4. A client is taking levothyroxine (Synthroid) for hypothyroidism. Which symptom would indicate to the nurse that the client is taking too much medication?

• A. Bradycardia
• B. Lethargy
• C. Tremors
• D. Constipation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a client is taking an excessive dose of levothyroxine (Synthroid), it can lead to symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Tremors are a common sign of excessive medication, along with tachycardia and insomnia. Bradycardia, lethargy, and constipation are typical symptoms of hypothyroidism, indicating that the client may require a higher dose of levothyroxine rather than too much.

5. The client with metastatic breast cancer is receiving tamoxifen. The nurse specifically monitors which laboratory value while the client is taking this medication?

• A. Glucose level
• B. Calcium level
• C. Potassium level
• D. Prothrombin time

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Calcium level. Tamoxifen may increase calcium levels, leading to hypercalcemia. Symptoms of hypercalcemia include increased urine volume, excessive thirst, nausea, vomiting, constipation, muscle weakness, and bone pain. Monitoring serum calcium levels is essential to detect and manage this potential side effect. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because tamoxifen does not directly affect glucose, potassium, or prothrombin time levels significantly.

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