Nursing Elites

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

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

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Administering the medication is appropriate for a stable lithium level of 0.8 mEq/L. A level of 0.8 mEq/L falls within the therapeutic range for lithium, indicating that the client is receiving an adequate dose to maintain therapeutic effects. Withholding the next dose, increasing the dosage, or discontinuing the medication would not be indicated at this lithium level as it is within the desired range for therapeutic benefit. Therefore, the correct action would be to continue administering the medication to ensure the client maintains the therapeutic level of lithium.

2. A nurse has just received change-of-shift report for four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse assess first?

• A. A client who was just given a glass of orange juice for a low blood glucose level.
• B. A client who is scheduled for a procedure in 1 hr.
• C. A client who has 100 mL of fluid remaining in his IV bag.
• D. A client who received a pain medication 30 min ago for postoperative pain.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A client with low blood glucose levels needs immediate assessment to ensure stabilization. Hypoglycemia can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly. The other options do not present immediate life-threatening situations that require urgent assessment. Option B can be attended to after addressing the client with low blood glucose levels. Option C can be managed based on the infusion rate and the client's condition. Option D, although important, can be assessed after ensuring the client with low blood glucose levels is stable.

3. A nurse is assessing a client who is experiencing acute pain. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Bradycardia
• C. Diaphoresis
• D. Piloerection

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Diaphoresis. Diaphoresis, which is excessive sweating, is a common manifestation of acute pain caused by increased sympathetic nervous system activity. This response is the body's way of trying to regulate body temperature during the stress response. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Hypertension (Choice A) and tachycardia (not bradycardia as in Choice B) are more likely responses to acute pain due to sympathetic nervous system activation. Piloerection (Choice D), also known as goosebumps, is not a typical manifestation of acute pain.

4. A client has a new prescription for levothyroxine, and a nurse is providing teaching. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. ''I should take this medication with food to prevent nausea.''
• B. ''I should take this medication in the evening before bedtime.''
• C. ''I will need to take this medication for the rest of my life.''
• D. ''I should stop taking this medication if I develop a rash.''

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Levothyroxine is a lifelong medication for clients with hypothyroidism, and it should be taken as prescribed. Choice A is incorrect because levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach. Choice B is incorrect because levothyroxine is usually taken in the morning on an empty stomach. Choice D is incorrect because stopping the medication abruptly can have adverse effects on thyroid function.

5. A nurse is caring for a client who has DVT. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Limit the client's fluid intake to 1500 mL per day
• B. Avoid massaging the affected extremity to relieve pain
• C. Avoid applying cold packs to the client's affected extremity
• D. Elevate the client's affected extremity when in bed

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with DVT is to elevate the affected extremity when in bed. Elevation helps reduce swelling by promoting venous return. Limiting fluid intake could lead to dehydration and is not recommended. Massaging the affected extremity can dislodge a clot, leading to serious complications. Applying cold packs can cause vasoconstriction and should be avoided in DVT.

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