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. During a vaso-occlusive crisis in sickle cell anemia, what action is crucial for a nurse to take?

• A. Administer meperidine for pain.
• B. Apply cold compresses to the child's joints.
• C. Limit the child's fluid intake.
• D. Maintain bed rest for the child.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During a vaso-occlusive crisis in sickle cell anemia, maintaining bed rest is crucial to reduce oxygen consumption and alleviate pain. Movement can worsen the crisis by increasing sickling of red blood cells, leading to further tissue damage and pain. Bed rest helps to improve blood flow, reduce pain, and promote healing. Administering meperidine for pain (Choice A) is not recommended due to the risk of normeperidine accumulation and potential neurotoxicity. Applying cold compresses (Choice B) may cause vasoconstriction, worsening the vaso-occlusive crisis. Limiting fluid intake (Choice C) is not appropriate as adequate hydration is essential to prevent dehydration and maintain blood flow.

3. A preschool-age child is admitted to the hospital with acute postinfectious glomerulonephritis (APIGN). Which is the priority nursing diagnosis for this child?

• A. Risk for Injury related to hypertension.
• B. Altered Growth and Development related to chronic disease.
• C. Risk for Infection related to hypertension.
• D. Fluid Volume Excess related to decreased plasma filtration.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing diagnosis for a preschool-age child with acute postinfectious glomerulonephritis (APIGN) is 'Risk for Injury related to hypertension' due to the potential complications such as hypertensive encephalopathy. Hypertension poses an immediate threat to the child's well-being, making it crucial to address the risk for injury associated with elevated blood pressure as the top priority.

4. At what age range is it important to feed a baby in a more upright position and no longer in sidelying?

• A. 6-12 months
• B. 4-6 months
• C. 12-18 months
• D. Birth to 3 months

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Feeding a baby in a more upright position and no longer in sidelying is important around 4-6 months of age. At this stage, babies start developing better head and trunk control, which allows them to sit in a more upright position for feeding, promoting safer and more efficient swallowing and digestion. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as feeding a baby in a more upright position typically starts around 4-6 months when the baby has gained more control over their head and trunk movements, making it safer and more effective for feeding.

5. When teaching a parent of a toddler with a new prescription for liquid ferrous sulfate, which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Mix the medication with milk.
• B. Give the medication with orange juice.
• C. Give the medication with meals.
• D. Administer the medication with an antacid.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to give the medication with orange juice. Orange juice helps increase the absorption of iron from ferrous sulfate. This acidic environment aids in the absorption of iron, making it a suitable choice for administration. Mixing the medication with milk or an antacid may decrease iron absorption, and giving it with meals may not optimize its absorption as effectively as with orange juice.

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