Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Which of the following findings should the professional report to the provider?

• A. Blood glucose level of 130 mg/dL
• B. Serum sodium level of 140 mEq/L
• C. Serum potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L
• D. Platelet count of 250,000/mm³

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A serum potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L indicates hypokalemia, a complication that should be reported in clients receiving TPN. Hypokalemia can lead to serious cardiac and neuromuscular complications. The other options are within normal ranges and do not indicate immediate concerns for a client receiving TPN. A blood glucose level of 130 mg/dL, serum sodium level of 140 mEq/L, and platelet count of 250,000/mm³ are all considered normal values and do not require immediate intervention.

2. A client who has a new prescription for lithium is receiving discharge teaching from a nurse. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will need to have my blood levels checked regularly while taking this medication.
• B. I should take this medication on an empty stomach.
• C. I should avoid eating foods that are high in sodium.
• D. I should stop taking this medication if I experience nausea.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Clients prescribed lithium need regular monitoring of blood levels to ensure the medication's effectiveness and safety. This monitoring helps to keep the medication within the therapeutic range and prevent toxicity. Choice B is incorrect because lithium is usually taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Choice C is not directly related to lithium therapy; however, excessive sodium intake can affect lithium levels. Choice D is incorrect as abruptly stopping lithium can lead to adverse effects and should only be done under healthcare provider guidance.

3. A client with a history of depression is experiencing a situational crisis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Confirm the client's perception of the event.
• B. Notify the client's support system.
• C. Help the client identify personal strengths.
• D. Teach the client relaxation techniques.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to confirm the client's perception of the event. In crisis intervention, understanding the client's perspective is crucial as it helps the nurse assess the situation accurately and provide tailored support. This step can also help build rapport and trust with the client. Option B, notifying the client's support system, may be important but should come after assessing the client's perception. Option C, helping the client identify personal strengths, and option D, teaching relaxation techniques, are valuable interventions but should follow the initial step of confirming the client's perception.

4. A client with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is receiving teaching from a nurse. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Lie down after meals to reduce discomfort.
• B. Limit fluid intake to 1 liter per day.
• C. Avoid eating spicy foods.
• D. Eat three large meals each day.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Avoid eating spicy foods.' Spicy foods can exacerbate symptoms of GERD by irritating the esophagus and causing discomfort. It is important for clients with GERD to avoid spicy foods to help manage their condition. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. A client with GERD should not lie down after meals as this can worsen symptoms, limiting fluid intake to only 1 liter per day may not be appropriate for everyone, and eating three large meals each day can put pressure on the stomach and worsen GERD symptoms.

5. A client is receiving a new prescription for enoxaparin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Rub the injection site after administration.
• B. Pinch the skin while administering the injection.
• C. Aspirate before administering the medication.
• D. Avoid taking aspirin while using this medication.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Avoid taking aspirin while using this medication.' Enoxaparin is an anticoagulant medication, and taking aspirin concurrently can increase the risk of bleeding. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. A nurse should not instruct the client to rub the injection site after administration as it may cause irritation. Pinching the skin while administering the injection is not recommended for enoxaparin injections. Aspirating before administering the medication is also unnecessary as enoxaparin is administered subcutaneously, not intramuscularly.

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