Nursing Elites

1. Acarbose (Precose), an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, is prescribed for a female client with type 2 diabetes mellitus. During discharge planning, nurse Pauleen would be aware of the client's need for additional teaching when the client states:

• A. If I have hypoglycemia, I should eat some sugar, not dextrose.
• B. The drug makes my pancreas release more insulin.
• C. I should never take insulin while I'm taking this drug.
• D. It's best if I take the drug with the first bite of a meal.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Acarbose (Precose) is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor that works by slowing carbohydrate absorption in the intestine, not by stimulating insulin release. Therefore, the client would need additional teaching if they state that the drug makes their pancreas release more insulin (Choice B). Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because during hypoglycemia, it is recommended to consume glucose or dextrose to rapidly raise blood sugar levels. Choice C is incorrect because insulin therapy may still be needed in some cases, even when taking acarbose. Choice D is incorrect because acarbose should be taken at the start of a meal to help reduce postprandial blood glucose levels.

2. The healthcare professional is educating a client with Cushing's syndrome about dietary management. Which of the following instructions should the healthcare professional include?

• A. Increase sodium intake
• B. Limit protein intake
• C. Limit calcium intake
• D. Increase potassium intake

Correct answer: D

Rationale: For clients with Cushing's syndrome, they are at risk of developing hypokalemia due to increased excretion of potassium. Therefore, it is essential to advise them to increase their potassium intake. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because: A) Increasing sodium intake can worsen fluid retention and hypertension common in Cushing's syndrome. B) Limiting protein intake is not necessary unless there are specific kidney issues that require protein restriction. C) Limiting calcium intake is not typically recommended unless there are underlying conditions such as hypercalcemia.

3. A client with type 1 diabetes mellitus is experiencing hypoglycemia. What should the nurse instruct the client to do?

• A. Administer insulin immediately
• B. Consume 15 grams of simple carbohydrates
• C. Drink plenty of water
• D. Avoid eating until symptoms resolve

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client with type 1 diabetes mellitus experiences hypoglycemia, the nurse should instruct them to consume 15 grams of simple carbohydrates. This is the recommended initial treatment for hypoglycemia as it helps quickly raise blood sugar levels to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Administering insulin immediately (Choice A) would further lower blood sugar levels, worsening the hypoglycemia. Drinking plenty of water (Choice C) and avoiding eating until symptoms resolve (Choice D) are not appropriate actions for treating hypoglycemia as they do not address the immediate need to raise blood sugar levels.

4. A client with hyperthyroidism is prescribed methimazole. The nurse should instruct the client that the purpose of this medication is to:

• A. Decrease thyroid hormone production
• B. Increase thyroid hormone production
• C. Suppress the immune system
• D. Prevent thyroid storm

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decrease thyroid hormone production. Methimazole works by inhibiting the synthesis of thyroid hormones, specifically by blocking the enzyme responsible for this process. By reducing the production of thyroid hormones, methimazole helps to normalize the elevated levels seen in hyperthyroidism. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B, 'Increase thyroid hormone production,' is inaccurate as methimazole actually decreases thyroid hormone production. Choice C, 'Suppress the immune system,' is unrelated to the mechanism of action of methimazole. Choice D, 'Prevent thyroid storm,' is not the primary purpose of methimazole; while it may help prevent worsening of hyperthyroidism, its main action is to reduce thyroid hormone levels.

5. The healthcare provider is assessing a client with hypothyroidism. Which of the following clinical findings would the healthcare provider expect?

• A. Tachycardia
• B. Weight loss
• C. Cold intolerance
• D. Diaphoresis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Cold intolerance is a classic symptom of hypothyroidism. In hypothyroidism, the body's metabolic rate is decreased, leading to a reduced ability to regulate body temperature. As a result, individuals with hypothyroidism often feel cold, especially in their extremities. Tachycardia (A) is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism due to the increased metabolic rate. Weight loss (B) is also a typical finding in hyperthyroidism, as the body burns calories at a faster rate. Diaphoresis (D), excessive sweating, is not a typical symptom of hypothyroidism.

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