Nursing Elites

1. A client is receiving meperidine (Demerol) for pain management. Which assessment finding requires immediate action?

• A. Constipation
• B. Drowsiness
• C. Respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute
• D. Nausea

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute indicates respiratory depression, a severe side effect of meperidine (Demerol) that necessitates immediate intervention to prevent further complications. Constipation, drowsiness, and nausea are common but less urgent side effects that do not pose an immediate life-threatening risk. Respiratory depression can lead to respiratory arrest and must be addressed promptly to ensure the client's safety and well-being.

2. A healthcare provider has written a prescription for ranitidine (Zantac), once daily. When should the nurse schedule the medication?

• A. At bedtime
• B. After lunch
• C. With supper
• D. Before breakfast

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: At bedtime. Ranitidine should be scheduled at bedtime because it provides a prolonged effect and offers the greatest protection of the gastric mucosa. Administering it at this time helps in managing nocturnal acid breakthrough and providing relief during the night.

3. A client is receiving desmopressin acetate (DDAVP), and a healthcare provider is monitoring for adverse effects. Which of the following indicates the presence of an adverse effect?

• A. Insomnia
• B. Drowsiness
• C. Weight loss
• D. Increased urination

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Drowsiness can be a sign of water intoxication or hyponatremia, which are potential adverse effects of desmopressin acetate (DDAVP). It is crucial to monitor for this symptom and promptly address it to prevent complications.

4. A community health nurse visits a client at home. Prednisone 10 mg orally daily has been prescribed for the client. The nurse reinforces teaching for the client about the medication. Which statement, if made by the client, indicates that further teaching is necessary?

• A. I can take aspirin or my antihistamine if I need it.
• B. I need to take the medication every day at the same time.
• C. I need to avoid coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate in my diet.
• D. If I gain more than 5 pounds a week, I will call my doctor.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Aspirin and other over-the-counter medications should not be taken without consulting the health care provider (HCP). The client needs to take the medication at the same time every day and avoid caffeine-containing foods and fluids to prevent steroid-ulcer development.

5. A client with hyperlipidemia is prescribed atorvastatin (Lipitor). Which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching plan?

• A. Take the medication in the morning.
• B. Avoid consuming grapefruit juice.
• C. Increase your intake of dairy products.
• D. Take the medication with food.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to include in the teaching plan is to advise the client to avoid consuming grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice can increase the risk of atorvastatin (Lipitor) toxicity by inhibiting its metabolism. Atorvastatin is typically taken in the evening as cholesterol synthesis occurs at night. Increasing dairy intake is not specifically recommended for atorvastatin therapy, and the medication can be taken with or without food.

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