Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving a continuous heparin infusion. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor to evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy?

• A. Serum potassium
• B. Platelets
• C. aPTT
• D. INR

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: aPTT. Monitoring the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is crucial when a client is receiving heparin therapy. The aPTT reflects the clotting time and helps assess the effectiveness of heparin in preventing clot formation. Keeping the aPTT within the therapeutic range ensures that the medication is working optimally. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because serum potassium, platelets, and INR are not direct indicators of heparin's effectiveness or therapeutic range.

2. A client with osteoporosis is being taught by a nurse how to prevent further bone loss. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take a calcium supplement daily.
• B. Perform weight-bearing exercises.
• C. Avoid weight-bearing exercises.
• D. Limit intake of high-phosphorus foods.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Perform weight-bearing exercises. Weight-bearing exercises are essential for preventing further bone loss and improving bone density in clients with osteoporosis. Calcium supplements alone may not be sufficient to prevent bone loss without adequate physical activity. Option C, 'Avoid weight-bearing exercises,' is incorrect as these exercises are beneficial for bone health. Option D, 'Limit intake of high-phosphorus foods,' is not directly related to preventing further bone loss in osteoporosis.

3. A nurse is planning care for a client who is 1 day postoperative following a hypophysectomy for the removal of a pituitary tumor. Which of the following findings requires further assessment by the nurse?

• A. Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15
• B. Blood drainage on the initial dressing measuring 3 cm
• C. Report of dry mouth
• D. Urinary output greater than fluid intake

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Urinary output greater than fluid intake could indicate diabetes insipidus, a complication following hypophysectomy. Diabetes insipidus is characterized by excessive urination and extreme thirst due to inadequate levels of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). Options A, B, and C are all expected findings in the immediate postoperative period following a hypophysectomy. A Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15 indicates the highest level of consciousness, blood drainage on the initial dressing is a common finding after surgery, and dry mouth can be a side effect of anesthesia and surgical procedures.

4. Which electrolyte imbalance should be closely monitored in a patient receiving digoxin?

• A. Monitor potassium levels
• B. Monitor sodium levels
• C. Monitor calcium levels
• D. Monitor glucose levels

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Potassium levels should be monitored closely in a patient receiving digoxin to avoid hypokalemia. Digoxin can increase the risk of developing life-threatening arrhythmias in the presence of low potassium levels. Monitoring sodium, calcium, or glucose levels is not specifically necessary for patients on digoxin, making choices B, C, and D incorrect.

5. A client is receiving discharge teaching regarding a new prescription for warfarin. Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I will eat more leafy green vegetables while taking warfarin.
• B. I will have my INR checked regularly while taking warfarin.
• C. I will avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking warfarin.
• D. I will use a soft toothbrush while taking warfarin.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Clients taking warfarin should avoid leafy green vegetables as they are high in vitamin K, which can reduce the effectiveness of the medication. Therefore, the statement 'I will eat more leafy green vegetables while taking warfarin' indicates a need for further teaching. Choice B is correct as regular monitoring of INR levels is necessary for clients on warfarin. Choice C is correct as grapefruit juice can interact with warfarin and should be avoided. Choice D is correct as using a soft toothbrush is recommended to prevent gum bleeding while on warfarin.

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