Nursing Elites

1. A patient is prescribed raloxifene (Evista) for osteoporosis. What is the primary mechanism of action for this medication?

• A. Raloxifene decreases bone resorption, which helps to maintain or increase bone density.
• B. Raloxifene increases calcium absorption in the intestines, which helps build stronger bones.
• C. Raloxifene stimulates new bone formation by increasing osteoblast activity.
• D. Raloxifene decreases calcium excretion by the kidneys, helping to maintain bone density.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Raloxifene decreases bone resorption, which helps to maintain or increase bone density, making it effective in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

2. A patient is starting on a new oral contraceptive. What should the nurse emphasize about the timing of the medication?

• A. Take the medication at the same time each day to maintain stable hormone levels.
• B. Oral contraceptives should be taken in the morning to avoid nighttime side effects.
• C. Oral contraceptives can be taken at any time of day as long as the schedule is consistent.
• D. Oral contraceptives are effective immediately upon starting, regardless of timing.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. It is crucial for patients taking oral contraceptives to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain stable hormone levels and ensure their effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. Choice B is incorrect because there is no specific requirement to take oral contraceptives in the morning. Choice C is incorrect because consistency in timing is essential, but it should be at the same time each day. Choice D is incorrect because oral contraceptives may take some time to reach peak effectiveness, so it is important to emphasize the need for consistent timing.

3. A school nurse is meeting with a high school student who mentions that she is frustrated with her repeated outbreaks of cold sores. The student states that she tried an over-the-counter topical cream but that it failed to produce an appreciable improvement. The nurse should recognize that this student used what medication?

• A. Ganciclovir
• B. Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
• C. Famciclovir (Famvir)
• D. Docosanol (Abreva)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Docosanol (Abreva). Docosanol is an over-the-counter topical cream commonly used to treat cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus. It works by inhibiting viral fusion to host cell membranes, reducing the spread of the virus. Ganciclovir (Choice A) is an antiviral medication used for the treatment of cytomegalovirus infections. Valacyclovir (Choice B) and Famciclovir (Choice C) are prescription antiviral medications used to treat herpes simplex virus infections but are not typically available over-the-counter like Docosanol.

4. Which of the following is a clinical manifestation in a patient with renal impairment associated with polycystic kidney disease?

• A. Suprapubic pain
• B. Periorbital edema
• C. Low serum creatinine level
• D. Palpable kidneys

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Palpable kidneys. Polycystic kidney disease often leads to the development of multiple fluid-filled cysts within the kidneys, causing them to enlarge. Enlarged kidneys can be palpated during a physical examination. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Suprapubic pain is not a typical clinical manifestation of polycystic kidney disease. Periorbital edema is more commonly associated with conditions like nephrotic syndrome or heart failure. Low serum creatinine level is not expected in patients with renal impairment due to polycystic kidney disease; instead, elevated serum creatinine levels are more likely.

5. Which statement best conveys an aspect of the role of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?

• A. CSF provides immune protection to the brain and spinal cord by serving as a physical barrier.
• B. CSF cushions the brain and spinal cord, protecting them from injury.
• C. CSF plays a limited role in the exchange of nutrients and waste products between the blood and brain.
• D. CSF functions primarily as a medium for the transmission of nerve impulses.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Cerebrospinal fluid primarily cushions the brain and spinal cord, protecting them from injury. Choice A is incorrect because while CSF contributes to the brain's immune environment, its main role is not providing immune protection as a physical barrier. Choice C is incorrect because CSF has a significant role in the exchange of nutrients and waste products, rather than a limited one. Choice D is incorrect as CSF is not primarily a medium for nerve impulse transmission, but rather serves as a protective and supportive fluid.

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