Nursing Elites

1. An agitated, confused female client arrives in the emergency department. Her history includes type 1 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and angina pectoris. Assessment reveals pallor, diaphoresis, headache, and intense hunger. A stat blood glucose sample measures 42 mg/dl, and the client is treated for an acute hypoglycemic reaction. After recovery, the nurse teaches the client to treat hypoglycemia by ingesting:

• A. 2 to 5 g of a simple carbohydrate.
• B. 10 to 15 g of a simple carbohydrate.
• C. 18 to 20 g of a simple carbohydrate.
• D. 25 to 30 g of a simple carbohydrate.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 10 to 15 g of a simple carbohydrate. In the treatment of hypoglycemia, it is important to administer a specific amount of simple carbohydrates to raise blood glucose levels effectively without causing hyperglycemia. 10 to 15 g of simple carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets, fruit juice, or regular soft drinks, is recommended to rapidly increase blood sugar levels in clients experiencing hypoglycemia. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they either provide too little or too much glucose, which may not effectively treat the hypoglycemic episode or may lead to rebound hyperglycemia.

2. A male client with primary diabetes insipidus is ready for discharge on desmopressin (DDAVP). Which instruction should nurse Lina provide?

• A. Administer desmopressin while the suspension is cold.
• B. Your condition isn't chronic, so you won't need to wear a medical identification bracelet.
• C. You may not be able to use desmopressin nasally if you have nasal discharge or blockage.
• D. You won't need to monitor your fluid intake and output after you start taking desmopressin.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction is choice C: 'You may not be able to use desmopressin nasally if you have nasal discharge or blockage.' Nasal congestion or blockage can interfere with the absorption of nasally administered desmopressin. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is unnecessary as the temperature of the suspension does not impact desmopressin administration. Choice B is incorrect as wearing a medical identification bracelet is essential for individuals with diabetes insipidus to alert healthcare providers in case of emergencies. Choice D is incorrect as monitoring fluid intake and output is crucial when taking desmopressin to ensure proper hydration and medication effectiveness.

3. 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.

4. The client with type 2 DM is being taught about the importance of foot care. Which instruction should be included?

• A. Soak your feet in hot water every night.
• B. Walk barefoot whenever possible.
• C. Use a heating pad to warm your feet.
• D. Wear comfortable shoes that allow air circulation.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction for the client with type 2 DM regarding foot care is to wear comfortable shoes that allow air circulation. This helps prevent foot injuries and infections, which are common complications in clients with diabetes. Choice A is incorrect as soaking feet in hot water can lead to burns and skin damage. Choice B is incorrect because walking barefoot increases the risk of injury and infection. Choice C is incorrect as using a heating pad can also potentially lead to burns and skin damage.

5. A client with type 1 diabetes mellitus is admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which of the following interventions should be the nurse's priority?

• A. Administer intravenous insulin
• B. Start an intravenous line and infuse normal saline
• C. Monitor serum potassium levels
• D. Obtain an arterial blood gas (ABG)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to start an intravenous line and infuse normal saline. In diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the priority intervention is fluid resuscitation with normal saline to restore intravascular volume and improve perfusion. Administering insulin without first addressing dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can lead to further complications. Monitoring serum potassium levels and obtaining an arterial blood gas (ABG) are important aspects of DKA management but come after initial fluid resuscitation.

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