Nursing Elites

1. A client is taking levothyroxine (Synthroid). The nurse instructs the client to notify the health care provider (HCP) if which of the following occurs?

• A. Fatigue
• B. Tremors
• C. Cold intolerance
• D. Excessively dry skin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Tremors are a sign of excessive doses of levothyroxine, indicating hyperthyroidism. It is important for the client to report tremors to the healthcare provider to prevent complications associated with overdosing on levothyroxine.

2. A client with hyperparathyroidism has a serum calcium level of 13 mg/dL. Which medication should be prepared to administer as prescribed to the client?

• A. Calcium chloride
• B. Calcium gluconate
• C. Calcitonin (Miacalcin)
• D. Large doses of vitamin D

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The normal serum calcium level ranges from 8.6 to 10.0 mg/dL. In hypercalcemia, as seen in this client, Calcitonin (Miacalcin) is used to decrease plasma calcium levels by inhibiting bone resorption. Calcium gluconate and calcium chloride are typically used for hypocalcemia, not hypercalcemia. Large doses of vitamin D should be avoided in hypercalcemia as they can exacerbate hypercalcemia by increasing calcium absorption from the intestines.

3. A community health nurse visits a client at home. Prednisone 10 mg orally daily has been prescribed for the client. The nurse reinforces teaching for the client about the medication. Which statement, if made by the client, indicates that further teaching is necessary?

• A. I can take aspirin or my antihistamine if I need it.
• B. I need to take the medication every day at the same time.
• C. I need to avoid coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate in my diet.
• D. If I gain more than 5 pounds a week, I will call my doctor.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Aspirin and other over-the-counter medications should not be taken without consulting the health care provider (HCP). The client needs to take the medication at the same time every day and avoid caffeine-containing foods and fluids to prevent steroid-ulcer development.

4. A healthcare professional is preparing to administer digoxin (Lanoxin), 0.125 mg orally, to a client with heart failure. Which vital sign is most important for the healthcare professional to check before administering the medication?

• A. Heart rate
• B. Temperature
• C. Respirations
• D. Blood pressure

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Before administering digoxin, it is essential to assess the client's heart rate as this medication directly affects cardiac function. Monitoring the heart rate helps identify if it is within the acceptable range for administering digoxin. A pulse rate below 60 beats per minute warrants withholding the medication to prevent potential adverse effects like bradycardia or cardiac arrhythmias.

5. A nurse is monitoring a client receiving lithium carbonate for bipolar disorder. Which finding should the nurse report immediately to the healthcare provider?

• A. Increased thirst
• B. Fine hand tremors
• C. Frequent urination
• D. Persistent vomiting

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Persistent vomiting can be a sign of lithium toxicity, which requires immediate medical attention. Increased thirst, fine hand tremors, and frequent urination are common side effects of lithium.

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