Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare provider is reviewing the laboratory report of a client who has been taking lithium carbonate for the past 12 months. The provider notes a lithium level of 0.8 mEq/L. Which of the following orders from the provider should the healthcare provider expect?

• A. Withhold the next dose
• B. Increase the dosage
• C. Discontinue the medication
• D. Administer the medication

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A lithium level of 0.8 mEq/L falls within the therapeutic range for maintaining the drug's effectiveness while minimizing toxicity. Therefore, the appropriate action would be to continue administering the medication as prescribed by the healthcare provider to maintain the therapeutic effect for the client.

2. A client complains of difficulty swallowing when the nurse tries to administer capsule medication. Which of the following measures should the nurse take?

• A. Dissolve the capsule in a glass of water
• B. Break the capsule and give the contents with applesauce
• C. Check the availability of a liquid preparation
• D. Crush the capsule and place it under the tongue

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a client has difficulty swallowing capsule medication, the nurse should check the availability of a liquid preparation. This is a safer approach and ensures that the medication's integrity is maintained, providing an alternative form that is easier for the client to take. Dissolving the capsule in water (choice A) may alter the medication's effectiveness, breaking the capsule and mixing the contents with applesauce (choice B) is not recommended as it may cause an unpleasant taste, and crushing the capsule and placing it under the tongue (choice D) can be unsafe and affect the medication's absorption.

3. To assess the kidney function of a patient with an indwelling urinary (Foley) catheter, the nurse measures the hourly urine output. When should she notify the physician?

• A. Less than 30 ml/hour
• B. 64 ml in 2 hours
• C. 90 ml in 3 hours
• D. 125 ml in 4 hours

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Notifying the physician is necessary when the urine output is less than 30 ml/hour as it indicates impaired kidney function. Adequate urine output is essential for monitoring kidney function, and a urine output less than 30 ml/hour could suggest potential renal issues that require medical attention.

4. A client with COPD expresses concerns about leaving the house due to continuous oxygen use. What is an appropriate response by the nurse?

• A. There are portable oxygen delivery systems that you can take with you.
• B. When you go out, you can remove the oxygen and then reapply it when you get home.
• C. You probably will not be able to go out as much as you used to.
• D. Home health services will come to see you so you will not need to get out.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: For a client with COPD concerned about leaving the house while on continuous oxygen, the nurse should provide reassurance by mentioning the availability of portable oxygen delivery systems. These systems allow the client to maintain their oxygen therapy while being mobile, enabling them to go out and engage in activities outside the home. This response promotes independence and quality of life for the client, addressing their immediate concerns and offering a practical solution to their perceived limitation.

5. The physician orders a platelet count to be performed on Mrs. Smith after breakfast. The nurse is responsible for:

• A. Instructing the patient about this diagnostic test
• B. Writing the order for this test
• C. Giving the patient breakfast
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The nurse's responsibility in this scenario is to instruct the patient about the diagnostic test ordered by the physician. This includes explaining the purpose of the test, any necessary preparations, and what to expect. The nurse is not responsible for writing the order, as this is the physician's role. Additionally, providing breakfast is not directly related to the platelet count test. Therefore, the correct answer is A, which aligns with the nurse's role in educating and supporting the patient regarding the test.

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