Nursing Elites

1. A client is being monitored while receiving bethanechol chloride (Urecholine) for urinary retention. Which of the following indicates a therapeutic effect of this medication?

• A. Increased heart rate
• B. Increased peristalsis
• C. Passage of flatus
• D. Urinary output of 50 mL per hour

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Bethanechol chloride (Urecholine) is administered to stimulate the bladder and treat urinary retention. The therapeutic effect is indicated by an increased urinary output, as it demonstrates the medication's ability to prompt the bladder to empty. Increased heart rate and passage of flatus are unrelated to the therapeutic effects of bethanechol. Although bethanechol can increase peristalsis, the primary therapeutic goal is to address urinary retention.

2. Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor to determine the effectiveness of heparin therapy for a client with deep vein thrombosis?

• A. Platelet count
• B. Prothrombin time (PT)
• C. Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)
• D. Hemoglobin and hematocrit

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is the specific laboratory test used to monitor the effectiveness of heparin therapy in patients with deep vein thrombosis. It measures the time it takes for blood to clot and is crucial in assessing the therapeutic range of heparin. Platelet count, prothrombin time (PT), and hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are important parameters in assessing coagulation and blood status but do not directly indicate the effectiveness of heparin therapy.

3. A client with coronary artery disease complains of substernal chest pain. After checking the client's heart rate and blood pressure, a nurse administers nitroglycerin, 0.4 mg, sublingually. After 5 minutes, the client states, 'My chest still hurts.' Select the appropriate actions that the nurse should take.

• A. Call a code blue.
• B. Contact the registered nurse.
• C. Contact the client's family.
• D. Assess the client's pain level.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation is to contact the registered nurse. When a client with coronary artery disease experiences chest pain and does not achieve relief after the initial administration of nitroglycerin, it is crucial to inform the registered nurse promptly. Following the usual guideline for nitroglycerin administration, the nurse may administer a second tablet after assessing the client's pain level. The nurse should continue to assess the client's pain and monitor vital signs before each dose administration. Calling a code blue is not warranted at this point, as the client's condition does not indicate an immediate life-threatening emergency. Contacting the client's family is not necessary unless requested by the client.

4. Salicylic acid is prescribed for a client with a diagnosis of psoriasis. The nurse monitors the client, knowing that which of the following would indicate the presence of systemic toxicity from this medication?

• A. Tinnitus
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Constipation
• D. Decreased respirations

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tinnitus. Salicylic acid can lead to systemic toxicity, known as salicylism, which may manifest with symptoms like tinnitus, dizziness, hyperventilation, and mental disturbances. Tinnitus is a common early sign of salicylism and should be monitored closely by the nurse to prevent further complications.

5. Intravenous heparin therapy is prescribed for a client. While implementing this prescription, a nurse ensures that which of the following medications is available on the nursing unit?

• A. Protamine sulfate
• B. Potassium chloride
• C. Phytonadione (vitamin K)
• D. Aminocaproic acid (Amicar)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin, working to reverse its effects in case of excessive bleeding. It should be readily available when administering heparin to manage any potential bleeding complications effectively. Potassium chloride is not the antidote for heparin and is typically used to correct low potassium levels. Phytonadione (vitamin K) is used to reverse the effects of warfarin, not heparin. Aminocaproic acid (Amicar) is used to treat or prevent excessive bleeding but is not the antidote for heparin.

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