Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a thyroidectomy. The nurse should monitor for which of the following findings as a sign of hypocalcemia?

• A. Nausea
• B. Tingling in the fingers
• C. Numbness in the toes
• D. Sweating

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Tingling in the fingers is a classic sign of hypocalcemia. Following a thyroidectomy, hypocalcemia can occur due to damage to the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels in the body. Nausea, numbness in the toes, and sweating are not specific signs of hypocalcemia. Numbness and tingling usually start in the hands and feet due to their increased nerve sensitivity to low calcium levels.

2. A nurse is caring for a client with an NG tube who is experiencing nausea and decreased gastric secretions. What is the priority nursing action?

• A. Increase the suction pressure
• B. Turn the client onto their side
• C. Irrigate the NG tube with sterile water
• D. Replace the NG tube with a new one

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to replace the NG tube with a new one. When a client with an NG tube experiences nausea and decreased gastric secretions, it indicates a possible problem with the tube itself. Replacing the tube ensures proper functioning and can alleviate the symptoms. Increasing the suction pressure (Choice A) can worsen the client's condition. Turning the client onto their side (Choice B) may be helpful in some situations but does not address the underlying issue. Irrigating the NG tube with sterile water (Choice C) is not the priority and may not resolve the problem.

3. Which of the following is an expected side effect of furosemide?

• A. Bradycardia
• B. Hypokalemia
• C. Increased blood pressure
• D. Increased urine output

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Hypokalemia. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that works by increasing the excretion of water and electrolytes, including potassium, leading to hypokalemia. Choice A, Bradycardia, is incorrect because furosemide does not typically cause a decrease in heart rate. Choice C, Increased blood pressure, is incorrect as furosemide is actually used to lower blood pressure by reducing fluid volume. Choice D, Increased urine output, is a common effect of furosemide due to its diuretic action but is not an adverse side effect.

4. A client with asthma is being taught how to use a peak flow meter by a nurse. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Perform the test in the morning after taking medications
• B. Blow into the meter as slowly as possible
• C. Perform the test when feeling short of breath
• D. Use the peak flow meter after using your rescue inhaler

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction is to use the peak flow meter after using the rescue inhaler. This ensures accurate monitoring of asthma control during symptoms. Choice A is incorrect because peak flow measurements should be done before taking medications. Choice B is incorrect as the client should blow into the meter quickly and forcefully to get an accurate reading. Choice C is also incorrect as peak flow should be measured regularly, not just when feeling short of breath.

5. A client with a tracheostomy shows signs of respiratory distress. What action should the nurse take immediately?

• A. Increase the suction setting on the ventilator
• B. Administer a bronchodilator
• C. Suction the tracheostomy
• D. Encourage deep breathing exercises

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct immediate action for a client with a tracheostomy showing signs of respiratory distress is to suction the tracheostomy. Respiratory distress in this case is often caused by a blockage, which can be quickly relieved by suctioning to clear the airway. Increasing the suction setting on the ventilator (Choice A) may not address the immediate blockage in the tracheostomy. Administering a bronchodilator (Choice B) may help with bronchoconstriction but does not address the potential blockage in the tracheostomy. Encouraging deep breathing exercises (Choice D) may not be effective in relieving the immediate respiratory distress caused by a blocked tracheostomy.

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