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. Which clinical manifestations should the nurse anticipate when assessing a child admitted to the hospital unit with a diagnosis of minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS)?

• A. Massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and edema
• B. Hematuria, bacteriuria, and weight gain
• C. Decreased urine specific gravity and increased urinary output
• D. Gross hematuria, albuminuria, and fever

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) is characterized by massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and edema. Proteinuria results from the loss of proteins, particularly albumin, in the urine, leading to hypoalbuminemia. The low oncotic pressure due to hypoalbuminemia causes fluid to shift into the interstitial spaces, resulting in edema. These clinical manifestations are classic signs of MCNS and help differentiate it from other renal conditions.

3. What is the goal of pharmacologic therapy in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease?

• A. To increase the amount of acetylcholine at the pre-synaptic neurons
• B. To reduce the amount of dopamine available in the substantia nigra
• C. To balance cholinergic and dopaminergic activity in the brain
• D. To block dopamine receptors in pre-synaptic and post-synaptic neurons

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Parkinson’s disease results from a decrease in dopaminergic (inhibitory) activity, leaving an imbalance with too much cholinergic (excitatory) activity. With an increase in dopamine, the neurotransmitter activity becomes more balanced, and symptoms are controlled.

4. The nurse is providing care for a pediatric client in the emergency department (ED) with a diagnosis of decreased level of consciousness (LOC) secondary to increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Which healthcare provider order should the nurse question?

• A. Passive range-of-motion exercises to promote hip flexion
• B. Oxygen at 2 L nasal cannula to maintain saturation above 95%
• C. Hourly vital signs and neurologic checks
• D. Elevate head of bed 30 degrees

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a pediatric client with increased intracranial pressure (ICP) and decreased level of consciousness (LOC), passive range-of-motion exercises to promote hip flexion should be questioned as they can potentially increase intracranial pressure. This action may not be safe for the client's condition. The other options are appropriate interventions for managing a pediatric client with increased ICP and decreased LOC.

5. The 6-year-old child scheduled for an orchiopexy shyly asks the nurse, 'What are they going to do to me 'down there'? What is the nurse's best response?

• A. They are going to fix you up 'down there'.
• B. They will move your testicle from your abdomen to your scrotum.
• C. What do you think your doctor is going to do?
• D. You shouldn't worry. Your doctor knows exactly what to do.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should encourage the child to express his thoughts and feelings about the upcoming surgery. This approach helps the child feel heard and understood while providing an opportunity to address any misconceptions or fears. By asking the child what he thinks the doctor will do, the nurse engages the child in a conversation that can help alleviate anxiety and build trust. School-age children often have fears related to bodily harm, and open communication can help alleviate such concerns. Choices A and D do not encourage open communication or address the child's concerns directly. Choice B provides too much detail that may overwhelm the child and is not age-appropriate for a 6-year-old.

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