Nursing Elites

1. When a patient is taking glucocorticoids and digoxin, which electrolyte should the nurse prioritize monitoring?

• A. Calcium
• B. Magnesium
• C. Sodium
• D. Potassium

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should primarily monitor potassium levels in a patient taking glucocorticoids and digoxin. Glucocorticoids can lead to potassium loss, potentially increasing the risk of digoxin toxicity. Additionally, glucocorticoids may worsen hypokalemia induced by diuretics like thiazides and loops. While calcium, magnesium, and sodium are important electrolytes to monitor in various clinical situations, they are not the priority in this specific scenario of a patient on glucocorticoids and digoxin.

2. A toddler has minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) and 3+ pitting edema. Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Encourage an increased fluid intake for the toddler
• B. Place the child in an Airborne infection isolation room
• C. Increase the toddler's dietary sodium intake
• D. Administer corticosteroids to the toddler

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In managing minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) in children with pitting edema, corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment. Corticosteroids help reduce inflammation and decrease proteinuria, addressing the underlying cause of MCNS. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize administering the prescribed corticosteroids to the toddler as part of the plan of care.

3. When teaching a parent of a child with contact dermatitis, which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Apply a thick layer of antibiotic ointment to the affected area.
• B. Rub the skin vigorously with a towel to dry it.
• C. Keep the child's skin dry.
• D. Apply a thin layer of corticosteroid cream to the affected area.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction for a child with contact dermatitis is to apply a thin layer of corticosteroid cream to the affected area. Corticosteroid cream helps reduce inflammation and itching associated with contact dermatitis. It is important to avoid using antibiotic ointment or rubbing the skin vigorously, as these can worsen the condition. Keeping the child's skin dry is generally a good practice, but in the case of contact dermatitis, corticosteroid cream application is more beneficial.

4. A caregiver is seeking guidance from a healthcare provider concerning a child diagnosed with impetigo. Which of the following instructions should the healthcare provider include?

• A. Apply warm compresses to the affected area.
• B. Keep the child home from school until lesions are crusted over.
• C. Apply antibiotic ointment to the lesions.
• D. Cleanse the affected area with hydrogen peroxide.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The healthcare provider should recommend applying antibiotic ointment to the lesions to prevent the spread of infection and facilitate healing. Antibiotic ointment helps combat the bacterial infection associated with impetigo and supports the skin's recovery process. This approach aids in reducing symptoms, preventing complications, and promoting a quicker resolution of the condition.

5. In the management of heart failure, which diuretic is preferred due to its demonstrated significant mortality reduction in patients with heart failure?

• A. Furosemide (Lasix)
• B. Hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL)
• C. Spironolactone (Aldactone)
• D. Mannitol (Osmitrol)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic, is the preferred choice in heart failure due to its cardio-protective effect, leading to reduced mortality in patients with heart failure. It is used to manage both hypertension and edema, making it a valuable option in heart failure treatment.

Similar Questions