Nursing Elites

1. A patient with Parkinson's disease is prescribed levodopa. What dietary modification should the nurse suggest to the patient?

• A. Increase intake of vitamin C.
• B. Limit foods high in protein.
• C. Avoid foods rich in fiber.
• D. Increase sodium intake.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to limit foods high in protein. Patients taking levodopa should restrict their intake of protein-rich foods because protein can interfere with the absorption of the medication. Levodopa competes with dietary proteins for absorption in the small intestine, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the medication. Therefore, by reducing protein intake, the patient can enhance the absorption and therapeutic effects of levodopa. Increasing vitamin C intake is not necessary for patients prescribed with levodopa. Avoiding foods rich in fiber or increasing sodium intake are not directly related to optimizing levodopa therapy and might not benefit the patient's condition.

2. Why is a client with ascites scheduled for a paracentesis procedure?

• A. To diagnose liver disease
• B. To relieve abdominal pressure
• C. To assess kidney function
• D. To reduce blood pressure

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "To relieve abdominal pressure." Paracentesis is performed to drain accumulated fluid in the peritoneal cavity, providing symptomatic relief for clients with ascites. Choice A is incorrect because paracentesis is not a diagnostic procedure for liver disease. Choice C is incorrect as assessing kidney function would typically involve different procedures. Choice D is incorrect as paracentesis does not directly impact blood pressure.

3. A client with heart failure is receiving digoxin (Lanoxin). Which finding indicates that the medication is effective?

• A. Increased heart rate.
• B. Decreased pedal edema.
• C. Elevated blood pressure.
• D. Improved urine output.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a client with heart failure, decreased pedal edema is a positive indicator of improved cardiac output and reduced fluid retention. Digoxin works by increasing the strength of the heart's contractions, leading to improved circulation and reduced symptoms of heart failure, such as edema. Monitoring for decreased pedal edema is essential to assess the effectiveness of digoxin therapy. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because an increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and improved urine output are not specific indicators of digoxin's effectiveness in managing heart failure. Instead, the focus should be on improvements related to fluid retention and cardiac function, like decreased pedal edema.

4. A patient with an anxiety disorder is prescribed alprazolam. What is the primary action of this medication?

• A. Increase energy levels
• B. Induce sedation
• C. Elevate mood
• D. Reduce anxiety

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine that primarily works by reducing anxiety. It achieves this by enhancing the inhibitory effects of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain, which leads to a calming effect on the individual. Therefore, the primary action of alprazolam is to decrease anxiety levels rather than increase energy, induce sedation, or elevate mood.

5. A client is admitted with suspected meningitis. Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention?

• A. Headache.
• B. Fever.
• C. Nuchal rigidity.
• D. Seizures.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Seizures in a client with suspected meningitis indicate increased intracranial pressure or other complications requiring immediate intervention. Seizures can lead to further neurological damage and need prompt management to prevent adverse outcomes. Therefore, addressing seizures promptly is crucial in the care of a client with suspected meningitis.

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