Nursing Elites

1. A nurse caring for a client with hypocalcemia would expect to note which of the following changes on the electrocardiogram?

• A. Widened T wave
• B. Prominent U wave
• C. Prolonged QT interval
• D. Shortened ST segment

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In hypocalcemia, a decreased level of calcium can lead to a prolonged QT interval on the ECG due to its role in myocardial repolarization. A widened T wave (Choice A) is typically seen in hyperkalemia. A prominent U wave (Choice B) is associated with hypokalemia. A shortened ST segment (Choice D) is not a typical ECG finding in hypocalcemia.

2. Nurse Ruth is assessing a client after a thyroidectomy. The assessment reveals muscle twitching and tingling, along with numbness in the fingers, toes, and mouth area. The nurse should suspect which complication?

• A. Tetany
• B. Hemorrhage
• C. Thyroid storm
• D. Laryngeal nerve damage

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Tetany.' Tetany is characterized by muscle twitching, tingling, and numbness, which are indicative of hypocalcemia. After a thyroidectomy, accidental removal or damage to the parathyroid glands can lead to decreased calcium levels, resulting in tetany. Choice B, 'Hemorrhage,' is incorrect as it typically presents with symptoms such as sudden swelling, increased pain, or drop in blood pressure. Choice C, 'Thyroid storm,' is incorrect as it involves a sudden exacerbation of hyperthyroidism, leading to symptoms like fever, tachycardia, and confusion. Choice D, 'Laryngeal nerve damage,' is incorrect as it would manifest with voice changes, difficulty swallowing, or respiratory distress, not the symptoms described in the scenario.

3. The client is receiving dietary instructions for hypoparathyroidism. Which of the following dietary recommendations is appropriate?

• A. Increase intake of dairy products and green leafy vegetables
• B. Avoid foods high in calcium
• C. Consume a high-sodium diet
• D. Limit fluid intake to prevent fluid overload

Correct answer: A

Rationale: For clients with hypoparathyroidism, the appropriate dietary recommendation is to increase intake of calcium-rich foods like dairy products and green leafy vegetables to help manage hypocalcemia. This is because hypoparathyroidism leads to low levels of calcium in the blood, so increasing calcium intake through diet is essential. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Avoiding foods high in calcium (choice B) would exacerbate the hypocalcemia. Consuming a high-sodium diet (choice C) is not necessary for managing hypoparathyroidism. Limiting fluid intake (choice D) is not directly related to the dietary management of hypoparathyroidism.

4. A client with type 2 DM is prescribed metformin (Glucophage). The nurse should include which instruction when teaching the client about this medication?

• A. Take the medication with meals.
• B. Take the medication on an empty stomach.
• C. Avoid taking the medication if you miss a meal.
• D. Take the medication before bedtime.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction when taking metformin (Glucophage) is to take the medication with meals. Taking metformin with meals helps to reduce gastrointestinal side effects and improve absorption. Choice B is incorrect because taking metformin on an empty stomach can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Choice C is incorrect because missing a meal does not mean the medication should be avoided; the client should still take it with the next meal. Choice D is incorrect because there is no specific recommendation to take metformin before bedtime.

5. The client has undergone a thyroidectomy. Which of the following symptoms would indicate a potential complication?

• A. Bradycardia
• B. Tachycardia
• C. Hyperreflexia
• D. Hypocalcemia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Hypocalcemia is a potential complication of thyroidectomy as it may occur if the parathyroid glands, responsible for calcium regulation, are inadvertently removed or damaged during the procedure. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not typically associated with thyroidectomy complications. Tachycardia (fast heart rate) is more commonly seen in hyperthyroidism. Hyperreflexia (exaggerated reflex responses) is not a typical complication of thyroidectomy.

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