Nursing Elites

1. Before administering lithium to a client with bipolar disorder who has been taking the medication for 1 year, the nurse should check to see that which of the following tests has been completed?

• A. Thyroid hormone assay
• B. Liver function tests
• C. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
• D. Brain natriuretic peptide

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to check the thyroid hormone assay. Long-term lithium use can result in thyroid dysfunction, making it crucial to monitor the client's thyroid function regularly to detect any abnormalities early and prevent potential complications. Liver function tests (choice B) are not specifically associated with lithium therapy. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (choice C) is a nonspecific test for inflammation and not directly related to lithium therapy. Brain natriuretic peptide (choice D) is a test used to diagnose heart failure and is not relevant to monitoring lithium therapy.

2. What is the correct definition of drug absorption?

• A. Movement of a drug from the site of administration to various tissues of the body
• B. Describes the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of drugs
• C. These types of drugs can be taken over the counter
• D. This addresses how various drugs affect different forms of the body

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct definition of drug absorption is the movement of a drug from the site of administration into various tissues of the body. It is the process by which a drug is taken up and enters the systemic circulation. Choice B describes the pharmacokinetics of drugs, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, but it is not a specific definition of drug absorption. Choice C is unrelated to drug absorption, as it refers to over-the-counter drugs. Choice D is too vague and does not specifically address the process of drug absorption.

3. During an admission assessment for a client with severe Aspirin toxicity, which finding should the nurse expect?

• A. Body temperature 35°C (95°F)
• B. Lung crackles
• C. Cool, dry skin
• D. Respiratory depression

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In severe Aspirin toxicity, respiratory depression is an anticipated finding due to the development of respiratory acidosis. Aspirin toxicity can lead to metabolic acidosis, causing the individual to hyperventilate initially to compensate. However, as the condition progresses, respiratory depression can occur, resulting in impaired gas exchange and respiratory acidosis.

4. A client has a new prescription for Omeprazole. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take this medication before meals.
• B. Take this medication with food.
• C. Take this medication at bedtime.
• D. Take this medication with antacids.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Take this medication before meals.' Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that should be taken before meals to be most effective in reducing stomach acid production. Taking it before meals allows the medication to inhibit the proton pumps in the stomach when they are most active, leading to better control of acid secretion. Choice B is incorrect because taking Omeprazole with food may reduce its effectiveness as food can interfere with its absorption. Choice C is incorrect as Omeprazole is more effective when taken before meals. Choice D is incorrect as Omeprazole should not be taken with antacids as they can reduce its absorption.

5. Why does a nurse on an oncology unit verify a client's current cumulative lifetime dose of doxorubicin before administering it to a client with breast cancer?

• A. Excessive doxorubicin can result in myelosuppression.
• B. Exceeding the lifetime cumulative dose limit of doxorubicin may lead to extravasation.
• C. An excess amount of doxorubicin can lead to cardiomyopathy.
• D. Exceeding the lifetime cumulative dose limit of doxorubicin may cause red-tinged urine and sweat.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Verifying the client's current cumulative lifetime dose of doxorubicin is necessary because excessive amounts of the medication can lead to cardiomyopathy, a serious and potentially life-threatening side effect. By monitoring the cumulative dose, healthcare providers can help prevent cardiotoxicity and ensure patient safety during treatment.

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