Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional prepares to administer sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) to a client. Before administering the medication, the professional reviews the action of the medication and understands that it:

• A. Releases bicarbonate in exchange for primarily sodium ions
• B. Releases sodium ions in exchange for primarily potassium ions
• C. Releases potassium ions in exchange for primarily sodium ions
• D. Releases sodium ions in exchange for primarily bicarbonate ions

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Sodium polystyrene sulfonate, such as Kayexalate, is a cation exchange resin that functions by releasing sodium ions in exchange for primarily potassium ions. This medication is commonly used to treat hyperkalemia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of potassium in the blood.

2. A client who has begun taking fosinopril (Monopril) is very distressed, telling the nurse that he cannot taste food normally since beginning the medication 2 weeks ago. The nurse provides the best support to the client by:

• A. Telling the client not to take the medication with food
• B. Suggesting that the client taper the dose until taste returns to normal
• C. Informing the client that impaired taste is expected and generally disappears in 2 to 3 months
• D. Requesting that the health care provider (HCP) change the prescription to another brand of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to inform the client that impaired taste is an expected side effect of ACE inhibitors like fosinopril, such as Monopril, and typically resolves within 2 to 3 months. It is essential for the nurse to offer reassurance and education to the client about this common side effect to alleviate distress and encourage compliance with the medication regimen.

3. When monitoring a client for acute toxicity associated with bethanechol chloride (Urecholine), what sign should the nurse check for to indicate toxicity?

• A. Dry skin
• B. Dry mouth
• C. Bradycardia
• D. Signs of dehydration

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Bradycardia. Toxicity from bethanechol chloride (Urecholine) can lead to excessive muscarinic stimulation, resulting in manifestations like salivation, sweating, involuntary urination and defecation, bradycardia, and severe hypotension. When facing toxicity, treatment involves supportive measures and administering atropine sulfate subcutaneously or intravenously.

4. The camp nurse asks the children preparing to swim in the lake if they have applied sunscreen. The nurse reminds the children that chemical sunscreens are most effective when applied:

• A. Immediately before swimming
• B. 15 minutes before exposure to the sun
• C. Immediately before exposure to the sun
• D. At least 30 minutes before exposure to the sun

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Chemical sunscreens are most effective when applied at least 30 minutes before exposure to the sun to allow them to penetrate the skin and provide optimal protection. Applying sunscreen immediately before swimming (Choice A) or immediately before exposure to the sun (Choice C) may not provide sufficient time for the sunscreen to be absorbed and offer proper protection. Applying sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure (Choice B) is also not ideal as it may not allow enough time for the sunscreen to work effectively. Therefore, the correct answer is to apply chemical sunscreen at least 30 minutes before exposure to the sun to ensure it can be absorbed and offer the intended protection. It is important to reapply sunscreen after swimming or sweating to maintain its effectiveness.

5. A healthcare provider has written a prescription for ranitidine (Zantac), once daily. When should the nurse schedule the medication?

• A. At bedtime
• B. After lunch
• C. With supper
• D. Before breakfast

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: At bedtime. Ranitidine should be scheduled at bedtime because it provides a prolonged effect and offers the greatest protection of the gastric mucosa. Administering it at this time helps in managing nocturnal acid breakthrough and providing relief during the night.

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