a patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed valproic acid what is an important side effect for the nurse to monitor a patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed valproic acid what is an important side effect for the nurse to monitor
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1. A patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed valproic acid. What is an important side effect for the nurse to monitor?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Liver toxicity. Valproic acid is known to potentially cause liver toxicity. Monitoring liver function tests regularly in patients taking valproic acid is crucial to detect any signs of liver damage early and prevent serious complications.

2. A nurse is teaching a client who has gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) about ways to reduce symptoms. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Avoid lying down after meals.' This instruction is important for clients with GERD as it helps reduce reflux symptoms. Lying down after meals can worsen GERD symptoms by allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Choice B is incorrect because eating large meals can actually increase acid production and exacerbate GERD symptoms. Choice C is incorrect as carbonated beverages can trigger acid reflux in individuals with GERD. Choice D is also incorrect because consuming spicy foods can irritate the esophagus and lead to increased reflux symptoms.

3. A charge nurse is preparing an educational session about addictive disorders for nursing staff. Which of the following should the nurse include as an etiological factor of addictive disorder?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: All of the above. Addiction is influenced by various factors, including low self-esteem, family history of addiction, and specific personality traits. Low self-esteem can lead individuals to seek solace in substances, a family history of addiction can increase the likelihood of developing addictive behaviors due to genetic and environmental factors, and certain personality disorders may contribute to addictive tendencies. Therefore, all the factors listed in choices A, B, and C can play a role in the development of addictive disorders. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because addictive disorders are multifactorial, and it is essential to consider a combination of influences rather than isolating a single factor.

4. On what basis does the U.S. healthcare system operate?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. In the U.S., the healthcare system operates on a model where access to healthcare services is largely determined by an individual's ability to pay for care. This means that those with more financial resources have greater access to a wider range of healthcare services, while those with limited financial means may face barriers to accessing necessary care. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because healthcare in the U.S. is not universally provided as a basic right to all equally, it is not exclusively for the rich, and while health insurance is common, it is not the sole determinant of access to care.

5. A client's serum calcium level is 7.9 mg/dL. The nurse is immediately concerned, knowing that this level could lead to which complication?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A serum calcium level below normal (hypocalcemia) can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and potentially cardiac arrest. Calcium plays a crucial role in cardiac muscle contractility, and low levels can disrupt normal heart function, potentially leading to fatal arrhythmias and cardiac arrest. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as hypocalcemia is not directly associated with stroke, high blood pressure, or urinary stone formation. The immediate concern with low serum calcium levels is the risk of cardiac complications.

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