Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is taking Lithium for Bipolar Disorder. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional report to the provider immediately?

• A. Lithium level of 1.0 mEq/L
• B. Potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L
• C. Sodium level of 140 mEq/L
• D. Creatinine level of 1.0 mg/dL

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A creatinine level of 1.0 mg/dL should be reported to the provider immediately. While a lithium level of 1.0 mEq/L falls within the therapeutic range, a creatinine level of 1.0 mg/dL could suggest early signs of kidney dysfunction, especially concerning in a client on long-term lithium therapy. It is crucial to monitor kidney function closely because lithium can be nephrotoxic over time. Elevated creatinine levels may indicate impaired kidney function and should prompt immediate reporting to the healthcare provider. Potassium and sodium levels within normal range are not immediate concerns when compared to potential kidney issues.

2. A client has a new prescription for Hydrochlorothiazide. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

• A. Take the medication with food.
• B. Plan to take the medication at bedtime.
• C. Expect increased swelling of the ankles.
• D. Limit fluid intake in the morning.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When educating a client about taking Hydrochlorothiazide, the nurse should advise taking the medication with food or after meals to prevent gastrointestinal upset. This medication is a diuretic, so it is important to maintain adequate fluid intake throughout the day to prevent dehydration. Taking it at bedtime is not necessary, and increased swelling of the ankles is not an expected side effect of this medication. Limiting fluid intake in the morning is not necessary and could lead to dehydration, which is a potential side effect of this diuretic.

3. A client is starting therapy with Atenolol. Which of the following adverse effects should the nurse instruct the client to monitor?

• A. Tachycardia
• B. Hypoglycemia
• C. Bradycardia
• D. Hypertension

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Atenolol is a beta-blocker that can cause bradycardia as an adverse effect due to its mechanism of action in slowing down the heart rate. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor their pulse regularly and report any significant decreases to prevent complications related to bradycardia.

4. A client is taking Amiodarone to treat Atrial Fibrillation. Which of the following findings is a manifestation of Amiodarone toxicity?

• A. Light yellow urine
• B. Report of tinnitus
• C. Productive cough
• D. Blue-gray skin discoloration

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Blue-gray skin discoloration is a common sign of Amiodarone toxicity, known as blue-gray discoloration, which can affect areas like the face, neck, or hands. It is important to monitor for this side effect, as it can be a visible indicator of potential toxicity. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Light yellow urine is not typically associated with Amiodarone toxicity. Tinnitus is not a common manifestation of Amiodarone toxicity. A productive cough is not a recognized symptom of Amiodarone toxicity.

5. A healthcare professional is caring for a client who has a new prescription for Morphine to manage post-operative pain. Which of the following assessments should the healthcare professional perform first?

• A. Urine output
• B. Bowel sounds
• C. Pain level
• D. Respiratory rate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The healthcare professional should prioritize assessing the client's respiratory rate because respiratory depression is a life-threatening adverse effect of Morphine. Monitoring the respiratory rate allows for early detection of potential complications and timely intervention to prevent harm. Assessing urine output, bowel sounds, and pain level are important but should come after ensuring the client's respiratory status is stable as it is the most critical assessment to prevent serious complications associated with opioid use.

Similar Questions