Nursing Elites

1. A patient with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed methotrexate. What should the nurse include in the patient teaching?

• A. Take folic acid supplements as prescribed.
• B. Avoid alcohol completely.
• C. Expect to see immediate results.
• D. Limit fluid intake to 1 liter per day.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Patients prescribed methotrexate should be advised to take folic acid supplements as prescribed. Methotrexate can deplete folic acid levels, leading to side effects. By taking folic acid supplements as directed, the patient can reduce the risk of experiencing adverse effects associated with methotrexate therapy. It is important to note that the effects of methotrexate may not be immediate, so realistic expectations should be set with the patient. Alcohol should be avoided while taking methotrexate due to potential interactions and increased risk of liver toxicity. There is no specific recommendation to limit fluid intake to 1 liter per day in relation to methotrexate therapy.

2. Why is a low-protein diet recommended for a client with hepatic encephalopathy?

• A. Hyperglycemia
• B. Hypoglycemia
• C. Increased ammonia levels
• D. Electrolyte imbalance

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A low-protein diet is recommended for clients with hepatic encephalopathy to reduce ammonia levels. Ammonia, a byproduct of protein metabolism, can accumulate in the blood due to impaired liver function. Elevated ammonia levels can lead to worsening hepatic encephalopathy, a condition characterized by cognitive and neurological disturbances. Therefore, by limiting protein intake, the production of ammonia is reduced, thereby helping to manage hepatic encephalopathy. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because hepatic encephalopathy is not primarily related to hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, or electrolyte imbalance. The focus is on reducing ammonia levels to improve the condition.

3. A client in labor states, 'I think my water just broke!' The nurse notes that the umbilical cord is on the perineum. What action should the nurse perform first?

• A. Administer oxygen via face mask.
• B. Notify the operating room team.
• C. Place the client in Trendelenburg.
• D. Administer a fluid bolus of 500 ml.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the priority action for the nurse is to place the client in Trendelenburg position. This position helps alleviate pressure on the umbilical cord, preventing compression and ensuring continued blood flow to the fetus. Administering oxygen, notifying the operating room team, or administering a fluid bolus are not the initial priority actions in a cord prolapse situation.

4. A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is receiving oxygen therapy. Which instruction should the nurse provide?

• A. Use oxygen continuously, even while sleeping.
• B. Adjust the oxygen flow rate to 5 liters per minute if short of breath.
• C. Report any signs of difficulty breathing immediately.
• D. Take off the oxygen while eating or drinking.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with COPD receiving oxygen therapy is to use oxygen continuously, even while sleeping. This is important to ensure adequate oxygenation and optimal respiratory function for clients with COPD. Continuous oxygen therapy helps maintain oxygen levels during sleep, which is crucial for individuals with COPD who may experience nighttime hypoxemia. Therefore, advising the client to use oxygen continuously, even during sleep, is essential in managing COPD and preventing complications associated with oxygen deprivation.

5. The client is receiving intravenous vancomycin. Which assessment finding should the nurse report immediately?

• A. Red man syndrome.
• B. Blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg.
• C. Mild itching at the IV site.
• D. Nausea and vomiting.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Red man syndrome is a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction to vancomycin characterized by flushing, rash, and hypotension. Immediate intervention is required to prevent further complications such as anaphylaxis. Therefore, the nurse should report this finding immediately to ensure prompt treatment and prevent serious adverse effects.

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