Nursing Elites

1. A young adult asks the nurse about the normal cholesterol level. The nurse tells the client that the total cholesterol level should be maintained at less than:

• A. 140 mg/dL
• B. 200 mg/dL
• C. 250 mg/dL
• D. 300 mg/dL

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 200 mg/dL. A normal cholesterol value ranges between 140 and 199 mg/dL. Total cholesterol levels should ideally be maintained at 200 mg/dL or less to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they exceed the recommended normal range for total cholesterol levels and may increase the risk of developing heart-related issues.

2. Which of the following is a characteristic symptom of hypothyroidism?

• A. Fatigue.
• B. Weight gain.
• C. Cold intolerance.
• D. Heat intolerance.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Cold intolerance.' Hypothyroidism is associated with a decreased metabolic rate, leading to a decreased ability to regulate body temperature and a feeling of being cold. Fatigue (Choice A) and weight gain (Choice B) are also common symptoms of hypothyroidism due to the overall slowing down of bodily functions. Heat intolerance (Choice D) is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism, where the body's metabolism is overactive, leading to increased heat production.

3. After an endotracheal tube is placed in a client who experienced sudden onset of respiratory distress, what should the nurse do?

• A. Secure the tube in place with tape
• B. Order a chest x-ray for the client
• C. Document the depth of tube insertion
• D. Auscultate both lungs for breath sounds

Correct answer: D

Rationale: After endotracheal tube insertion, the nurse should auscultate both lungs for the presence of breath sounds. This step helps confirm proper tube placement and adequate ventilation. Auscultation of breath sounds is crucial to ensure that the tube is correctly positioned in the trachea and not in the esophagus. While securing the tube with tape is important, it is not the immediate priority after insertion. Ordering a chest x-ray may be necessary but is not the first action to take immediately post-intubation. Documenting the depth of tube insertion is important but ensuring proper ventilation through auscultation takes precedence.

4. The nurse is caring for several patients who are receiving antibiotics. Which order will the nurse question?

• A. Azithromycin (Zithromax) 500 mg IV in 500 mL of fluid
• B. Azithromycin (Zithromax) 500 mg PO once daily
• C. Erythromycin 300 mg IM QID
• D. Erythromycin 300 mg PO QID

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should question the order for Erythromycin 300 mg IM QID. Erythromycin and other macrolides should not be given intramuscularly because they cause painful tissue irritation. Options A and B are correct routes for Azithromycin, either intravenously or orally. Option D is a correct route for Erythromycin, which is orally.

5. The client admitted with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) asks the nurse why her legs hurt when she walks. The nurse bases a response on the knowledge that the main characteristic of PVD is:

• A. Decreased blood flow.
• B. Increased blood flow.
• C. Slow blood flow.
• D. Thrombus formation.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Decreased blood flow.' In peripheral vascular disease (PVD), there is a narrowing or blockage of blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow to the extremities. This decreased blood flow results in inadequate oxygen supply to the muscles, causing pain, especially during physical activity when oxygen demand increases. Choice B, 'Increased blood flow,' is incorrect because PVD is characterized by impaired blood circulation rather than increased flow. Choice C, 'Slow blood flow,' is not precise as PVD involves a more significant reduction in blood flow. Choice D, 'Thrombus formation,' is related to the formation of blood clots within vessels, which can be a complication of PVD but is not its main characteristic.

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