Nursing Elites

1. A client is being taught about patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). Which statement should be included in the teaching?

• A. The PCA will deliver a double dose of medication when you push the button twice.
• B. Continuous PCA infusion is designed to allow fluctuating plasma medication levels.
• C. You should push the button before physical activity to allow maximum pain control.
• D. You can adjust the amount of pain medication you receive by pushing on the keypad.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct statement to include in the teaching about PCA is that the client can adjust the amount of pain medication they receive by pushing on the keypad. This empowers the client to control their pain management effectively. Choice A is incorrect because PCA systems are programmed to prevent double dosing when the button is pressed multiple times in quick succession. Choice B is incorrect as continuous PCA infusion aims to maintain a steady plasma medication level. Choice C is incorrect because it is not necessary to push the button before physical activity to ensure maximum pain control; the client should use the PCA as needed for pain relief.

2. A healthcare professional is reviewing the medical record of a client who has a new prescription for enoxaparin. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional report to the provider?

• A. Platelet count 150,000/mm³
• B. aPTT 30 seconds
• C. Sodium 140 mEq/L
• D. Serum creatinine 3.0 mg/dL

Correct answer: D

Rationale: An elevated serum creatinine level indicates impaired kidney function, which can affect the metabolism and excretion of enoxaparin, potentially leading to increased drug levels and risk of bleeding. Therefore, it is crucial to report a high serum creatinine level before administering enoxaparin. Platelet count, aPTT, and sodium levels are not directly related to the administration of enoxaparin and would not impact its use; hence, they do not need to be reported before starting the medication.

3. A nurse is assessing a client who has a new prescription for enoxaparin. Which of the following findings is a priority for the nurse to report?

• A. Platelet count of 200,000/mm³
• B. Hemoglobin level of 15 g/dL
• C. Respiratory rate of 22/min
• D. Dark, tarry stools

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Dark, tarry stools indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a serious side effect of enoxaparin that requires immediate medical attention. Reporting this finding promptly is crucial to prevent further complications. Choices A, B, and C are within normal ranges and are not directly related to the adverse effects of enoxaparin, so they do not take precedence over the urgent concern of gastrointestinal bleeding.

4. How should a healthcare professional manage a patient with hypertension who is non-compliant with medication?

• A. Provide education on the importance of medication
• B. Refer the patient to a specialist
• C. Discontinue the medication
• D. Explore alternative treatment options

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Providing education on the importance of medication is crucial in managing hypertension in patients who are non-compliant. By educating the patient about the significance of taking medication as prescribed, the healthcare professional can help improve the patient's understanding and motivation to adhere to the treatment plan. Referring the patient to a specialist (Choice B) may be necessary in some cases but addressing non-compliance should start with education. Discontinuing the medication (Choice C) without addressing the root cause of non-compliance can worsen the patient's condition. Exploring alternative treatment options (Choice D) should come after ensuring the patient understands the importance of the current treatment regimen.

5. A client has a new prescription for levothyroxine. Which of the following findings should the nurse monitor for as a potential adverse effect of the medication?

• A. Increased heart rate.
• B. Weight loss.
• C. Hyperthermia.
• D. Decreased deep-tendon reflexes.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: An increased heart rate is a common adverse effect of levothyroxine due to its role in boosting metabolism. Choice B, weight loss, is actually a therapeutic effect of levothyroxine as it helps in managing hypothyroidism by increasing the metabolic rate. Hyperthermia (Choice C) is not a typical adverse effect of levothyroxine. Decreased deep-tendon reflexes (Choice D) are not associated with levothyroxine use.

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