Nursing Elites

1. Alendronate (Fosamax) is prescribed for a client with osteoporosis. The client taking this medication is instructed to:

• A. Take the medication at bedtime.
• B. Take the medication in the morning with breakfast.
• C. Lie down for 30 minutes after taking the medication.
• D. Take the medication with a full glass of water after rising in the morning.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Alendronate (Fosamax) should be taken with a full glass of water after rising in the morning to prevent gastrointestinal side effects and increase absorption. Taking the medication with a full glass of water and in an upright position after waking up helps decrease the risk of esophageal irritation and enhances the drug's effectiveness by ensuring proper absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.

2. A healthcare professional prepares to reinforce instructions to a client who is taking allopurinol (Zyloprim). The healthcare professional plans to include which of the following in the instructions?

• A. Instruct the client to drink 3000 mL of fluid per day.
• B. Instruct the client to take the medication with food.
• C. Inform the client that the effect of the medication will occur immediately.
• D. Instruct the client that, if swelling of the lips occurs, this is a normal expected response.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Allopurinol is an antigout medication that works by reducing the production of uric acid in the body. To prevent kidney stones and promote the excretion of uric acid, increased fluid intake is essential. Instructing the client to drink 3000 mL of fluid per day helps to reduce the risk of kidney stones and assists in the elimination of uric acid, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of allopurinol therapy.

3. A client who has been newly diagnosed with diabetes mellitus has been stabilized with daily insulin injections. Which information should the nurse teach when carrying out plans for discharge?

• A. Keep insulin vials refrigerated at all times.
• B. Rotate the insulin injection sites systematically.
• C. Increase the amount of insulin before unusual exercise.
• D. Monitor the urine acetone level to determine the insulin dosage.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client is stabilized with daily insulin injections, it is crucial to rotate the injection sites systematically. This practice helps prevent the development of lipodystrophy, which can affect insulin absorption and lead to inconsistent glucose control. Additionally, rotating sites minimizes discomfort and tissue damage, ensuring optimal insulin delivery and effectiveness.

4. A nurse is monitoring a client receiving lithium carbonate for bipolar disorder. Which finding should the nurse report immediately to the healthcare provider?

• A. Increased thirst
• B. Fine hand tremors
• C. Frequent urination
• D. Persistent vomiting

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Persistent vomiting can be a sign of lithium toxicity, which requires immediate medical attention. Increased thirst, fine hand tremors, and frequent urination are common side effects of lithium.

5. A client who is receiving digoxin (Lanoxin) daily has a serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L and is complaining of anorexia. A healthcare provider prescribes a digoxin level to rule out digoxin toxicity. A nurse checks the results, knowing that which of the following is the therapeutic serum level (range) for digoxin?

• A. 3 to 5 ng/mL
• B. 0.5 to 2 ng/mL
• C. 1.2 to 2.8 ng/mL
• D. 3.5 to 5.5 ng/mL

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The therapeutic serum level for digoxin ranges from 0.5 to 2 ng/mL. This range is considered optimal for therapeutic effects while minimizing the risk of toxicity. Levels above 2 ng/mL may lead to digoxin toxicity, which can manifest as anorexia among other symptoms. Therefore, the nurse should be vigilant in monitoring the digoxin levels to ensure the client's safety and therapeutic effectiveness of the medication.

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