Nursing Elites

1. An external insulin pump is prescribed for a client with DM. The client asks the nurse about the functioning of the pump. The nurse bases the response on the information that the pump:

• A. Gives small continuous doses of regular insulin subcutaneously, and the client can self-administer a bolus with an additional dosage from the pump before each meal.
• B. Is timed to release programmed doses of regular or NPH insulin into the bloodstream at specific intervals.
• C. Is surgically attached to the pancreas and infuses regular insulin into the pancreas, which in turn releases the insulin into the bloodstream.
• D. Continuously infuses small amounts of NPH insulin into the bloodstream while regularly monitoring blood glucose levels.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. An external insulin pump delivers small continuous doses of regular insulin subcutaneously throughout the day to meet the basal insulin needs. The client can also self-administer a bolus dose with an additional dosage from the pump before each meal to cover the mealtime insulin needs. Option B is incorrect as insulin pumps do not typically release programmed doses of insulin into the bloodstream at specific intervals; instead, they infuse insulin subcutaneously. Option C is incorrect as insulin pumps are not surgically attached to the pancreas; they are worn externally. Option D is incorrect as NPH insulin is not commonly used in insulin pumps, and the pumps do not continuously infuse insulin directly into the bloodstream but rather subcutaneously.

2. A healthcare professional is monitoring a client newly diagnosed with DM for signs of complications. Which sign or symptom, if exhibited in the client, indicates that the client is at risk for chronic complications of diabetes if blood glucose levels are not adequately managed?

• A. Polyuria
• B. Diaphoresis
• C. Pedal edema
• D. Proteinuria

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Proteinuria is the correct answer because it indicates kidney damage, which is a common complication of uncontrolled diabetes. Elevated blood glucose levels over time can damage the kidneys, leading to proteinuria. Polyuria (excessive urination) is a symptom of diabetes but does not specifically indicate a risk for chronic complications. Diaphoresis (excessive sweating) and pedal edema (swelling of the lower limbs) are not direct indicators of chronic complications related to uncontrolled diabetes.

3. Which of the following is an example of nonmaleficence in nursing practice?

• A. Administering pain medication as prescribed to prevent patient discomfort.
• B. Ensuring that a patient does not receive a treatment that they have refused.
• C. Ensuring that a patient receives appropriate care without causing harm.
• D. Encouraging a patient to express their concerns and fears about a procedure.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Nonmaleficence is the ethical principle of doing no harm. In nursing practice, ensuring that a patient does not receive a treatment they have refused is an example of nonmaleficence. Choice A focuses on beneficence by providing pain relief. Choice C is more aligned with beneficence as it emphasizes providing appropriate care without harm. Choice D pertains to patient communication but does not directly address the concept of nonmaleficence.

4. A male client is admitted for treatment of the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Which nursing intervention is appropriate?

• A. Infusing I.V. fluids rapidly as ordered
• B. Encouraging increased oral intake
• C. Restricting fluids
• D. Administering glucose-containing I.V. fluids as ordered

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct nursing intervention for a male client with SIADH is to restrict fluids. In SIADH, there is excess release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), leading to water retention and dilutional hyponatremia. Restricting fluids helps prevent further dilutional hyponatremia by reducing water intake. Infusing I.V. fluids rapidly (choice A) would worsen the condition by adding more fluids, encouraging increased oral intake (choice B) is contraindicated as it adds more fluids, and administering glucose-containing I.V. fluids (choice D) is not a standard treatment for SIADH.

5. A client with type 1 DM calls the nurse to report recurrent episodes of hypoglycemia with exercise. Which statement by the client indicates an inadequate understanding of the peak action of NPH insulin and exercise?

• A. The best time for me to exercise is every afternoon.
• B. The best time for me to exercise is right after I eat.
• C. The best time for me to exercise is after breakfast.
• D. The best time for me to exercise is after my morning snack.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Exercising in the afternoon may coincide with the peak action of NPH insulin, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. The peak action of NPH insulin typically occurs 4-12 hours after administration, so exercising during this time can further lower blood sugar levels. Choices B, C, and D are better options as they suggest exercising at times that are less likely to overlap with the peak insulin action, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia.

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