Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional reviewing a client's medical record notes a new prescription for verifying the trough level of the client's medication. Which of the following actions should the professional take?

• A. Obtain a blood specimen immediately prior to administering the next dose of medication.
• B. Verify that the client has been taking the medication for 24 hours before obtaining a blood specimen.
• C. Ask the client to provide a urine specimen after the next dose of medication.
• D. Administer the medication, and obtain a blood specimen 30 minutes later.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To verify trough levels of a medication, the healthcare professional should obtain a blood specimen immediately before administering the next dose of medication. This timing ensures an accurate representation of the medication's lowest concentration in the bloodstream, which is crucial for therapeutic monitoring and dose adjustments. Choice B is incorrect because waiting 24 hours after taking the medication would not provide an accurate trough level. Choice C is incorrect as urine specimens are not used to measure trough levels. Choice D is incorrect because obtaining a blood specimen 30 minutes after administering the medication would not reflect the trough level, as it is the lowest concentration before the next dose.

2. A healthcare provider is assessing a client who is taking Digoxin to treat heart failure. Which of the following findings is a manifestation of digoxin toxicity?

• A. Bruising
• B. Report of metallic taste
• C. Muscle pain
• D. Report of anorexia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct manifestation of digoxin toxicity is the report of anorexia. Anorexia, blurred vision, stomach pain, and diarrhea are common signs of digoxin toxicity. Bruising, metallic taste, and muscle pain are not typically associated with digoxin toxicity. Patients should promptly report symptoms of toxicity to their healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

3. During an admission assessment for a client with severe Aspirin toxicity, which finding should the nurse expect?

• A. Body temperature 35°C (95°F)
• B. Lung crackles
• C. Cool, dry skin
• D. Respiratory depression

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In severe Aspirin toxicity, respiratory depression is an anticipated finding due to the development of respiratory acidosis. Aspirin toxicity can lead to metabolic acidosis, causing the individual to hyperventilate initially to compensate. However, as the condition progresses, respiratory depression can occur, resulting in impaired gas exchange and respiratory acidosis.

4. A client has a new prescription for Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take one tablet every 15 minutes until pain is relieved.
• B. Take one tablet every 5 minutes, up to three doses.
• C. Take one tablet at bedtime.
• D. Take one tablet on an empty stomach.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct administration of Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets involves taking one tablet at the onset of chest pain and repeating every 5 minutes for up to three doses. This protocol helps in managing angina episodes effectively. Choice A suggests taking a tablet every 15 minutes until pain relief, which may delay appropriate intervention. Choice C, taking a tablet at bedtime, is not suitable for immediate relief during angina attacks. Choice D, taking a tablet on an empty stomach, is unrelated to the correct administration of Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets.

5. When a nurse assesses a client's IV catheter insertion site and notes a hematoma, which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.)

• A. Stop the infusion.
• B. Apply alcohol to the insertion site.
• C. Apply warm compresses to the insertion site.
• D. Elevate the client's arm.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a nurse detects a hematoma at the IV catheter insertion site, applying warm compresses is beneficial as it can promote healing by enhancing circulation and reducing swelling. Elevating the client's arm helps in reducing edema, which can relieve pressure, pain, and further bleeding in the hematoma area. Stopping the infusion may be necessary in certain situations, but it is not a standard action for all hematoma cases. Applying alcohol to the insertion site is discouraged as it can cause irritation and may not aid in resolving the hematoma.

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