Nursing Elites

1. What electrolyte value should be monitored when a patient is receiving a loop diuretic?

• A. Calcium levels
• B. Phosphorus levels
• C. Potassium levels
• D. Magnesium levels

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a patient is receiving a loop diuretic like furosemide (Lasix), potassium levels should be monitored closely. Loop diuretics act on the ascending loop of Henle to inhibit the reabsorption of sodium and water, leading to potassium loss. Monitoring potassium levels is crucial to prevent hypokalemia, which can result in serious complications such as cardiac arrhythmias. Calcium levels (Choice A), phosphorus levels (Choice B), and magnesium levels (Choice D) are not typically affected directly by loop diuretics and do not require routine monitoring in this context.

2. After providing discharge teaching, a nurse assesses the clients understanding regarding increased risk for metabolic alkalosis. Which statement indicates the client needs additional teaching?

• A. . I dont drink milk because it gives me gas and diarrhea
• B. I have been taking digoxin every day for the last 15 years
• C. . I take sodium bicarbonate after every meal to prevent heartburn
• D. In hot weather, I sweat so much that I drink six glasses of water each day.

Correct answer: C

Rationale:

3. Which mineral is important in hemoglobin production?

• A. Sodium
• B. Iodine
• C. Iron
• D. Chloride

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Iron (Fe) is a critical mineral in hemoglobin production. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that is essential for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Sodium (Choice A), Iodine (Choice B), and Chloride (Choice D) are not directly involved in hemoglobin production. Sodium is an electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance, Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production, and Chloride is an electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance and acidity in the body.

4. A nurse is caring for a client who has the following laboratory results: potassium 3.4 mEq/L, magnesium 1.8 mEq/L, calcium 8.5 mEq/L, sodium 144 mEq/L. Which assessment should the nurse complete first?

• A. Assess the client's dietary intake of foods high in potassium.
• B. Assess the client's neuromuscular status.
• C. Assess the client's fluid intake and output.
• D. Read food labels to determine sodium content.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to read food labels to determine sodium content. The client's sodium level is crucial to monitor as it is on the higher side (144 mEq/L), which can indicate hypernatremia. Excessive sodium intake can lead to fluid retention and other complications. Assessing dietary sodium intake can help the nurse and client make necessary adjustments to prevent further sodium imbalances. Choices A, B, and C are not the priority in this situation as the client's sodium level needs immediate attention to prevent potential complications.

5. Which hormones increase the amount of water in the body?

• A. ADH
• B. Aldosterone
• C. ANH
• D. ADH and aldosterone

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, ADH and aldosterone. Both antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and aldosterone increase water retention by the kidneys, thereby increasing blood volume. ADH acts on the kidneys to increase water reabsorption, while aldosterone acts on the kidneys to promote sodium reabsorption, leading to water retention. Choice A, ADH, is partially correct as it alone increases water retention. Choice B, aldosterone, is also partially correct as it alone increases water retention. Choice C, ANH (atrial natriuretic hormone), actually decreases water retention by promoting sodium excretion and inhibiting aldosterone release.

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