Nursing Elites

1. A client newly diagnosed with DM asks a nurse why it is necessary to monitor blood glucose levels so often. The nurse's best response would be:

• A. It helps to adjust insulin doses more precisely.
• B. It helps to prevent complications of diabetes.
• C. It helps to identify the best diet for you.
• D. It helps to reduce the need for medications.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Monitoring blood glucose levels frequently is crucial for preventing complications in diabetes. By keeping a close eye on blood glucose levels, healthcare providers can intervene in a timely manner if levels are out of range, thus reducing the risk of long-term complications such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and vision problems. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while monitoring blood glucose levels may indirectly contribute to adjusting insulin doses, identifying the best diet, and reducing the need for medications, the primary purpose is to prevent complications through timely interventions.

2. Which of the following best describes the nurse's role in patient education?

• A. The nurse is responsible for providing patients with information they need to make informed decisions about their care.
• B. The nurse provides education to the patient and their family to help them understand the care plan and make informed decisions.
• C. The nurse is responsible for providing patients with written materials to help them understand their condition and treatment options.
• D. The nurse provides patients with verbal and written instructions on how to manage their care at home.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The nurse's role in patient education involves providing patients with the necessary information to make informed decisions about their care. This includes explaining treatment options, potential risks and benefits, and answering any questions the patient may have. Choice B is incorrect because while nurses do educate patients and families, the primary focus is on empowering patients to make informed decisions. Choice C is incorrect as providing written materials is a part of patient education but not the sole responsibility of the nurse. Choice D is incorrect because while nurses do provide instructions on managing care at home, patient education goes beyond just the home care aspect to encompass a broader understanding of the patient's condition and treatment.

3. A client with hypothyroidism is receiving levothyroxine therapy. The healthcare provider should monitor for which of the following signs of medication overdose?

• A. Bradycardia
• B. Weight gain
• C. Tachycardia
• D. Cold intolerance

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Tachycardia. Tachycardia is a sign of levothyroxine overdose, indicating that the dose may need to be adjusted. Bradycardia (Choice A) is a sign of hypothyroidism, not an overdose of levothyroxine. Weight gain (Choice B) and cold intolerance (Choice D) are also symptoms of hypothyroidism, not medication overdose.

4. A client with type 1 DM calls the nurse to report recurrent episodes of hypoglycemia with exercise. Which statement by the client indicates an inadequate understanding of the peak action of NPH insulin and exercise?

• A. The best time for me to exercise is every afternoon.
• B. The best time for me to exercise is right after I eat.
• C. The best time for me to exercise is after breakfast.
• D. The best time for me to exercise is after my morning snack.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Exercising in the afternoon may coincide with the peak action of NPH insulin, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. The peak action of NPH insulin typically occurs 4-12 hours after administration, so exercising during this time can further lower blood sugar levels. Choices B, C, and D are better options as they suggest exercising at times that are less likely to overlap with the peak insulin action, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia.

5. The client with hypothyroidism is being educated by the healthcare provider about taking levothyroxine. Which of the following instructions should be included?

• A. Take the medication with meals
• B. Take the medication at bedtime
• C. Take the medication on an empty stomach in the morning
• D. Take the medication with a glass of milk

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to take levothyroxine on an empty stomach in the morning. This instruction is essential to enhance absorption and efficacy of the medication. Taking levothyroxine with meals, at bedtime, or with a glass of milk can interfere with its absorption and effectiveness, leading to suboptimal treatment outcomes.

Similar Questions