Nursing Elites

1. An incoherent female client with a history of hypothyroidism is brought to the emergency department by the rescue squad. Physical and laboratory findings reveal hypothermia, hypoventilation, respiratory acidosis, bradycardia, hypotension, and nonpitting edema of the face and pretibial area. Knowing that these findings suggest severe hypothyroidism, Nurse Libby prepares to take emergency action to prevent the potential complication of:

• A. Thyroid storm.
• B. Cretinism.
• C. Myxedema coma.
• D. Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The scenario described with hypothermia, hypoventilation, respiratory acidosis, bradycardia, hypotension, and nonpitting edema of the face and pretibial area is indicative of myxedema coma, a severe and life-threatening complication of hypothyroidism. Myxedema coma requires immediate emergency treatment to prevent further deterioration. Choice A, thyroid storm, is a complication of hyperthyroidism characterized by an increase in body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. Choice B, cretinism, refers to untreated congenital hypothyroidism leading to mental and physical growth retardation. Choice D, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is an autoimmune condition leading to hypothyroidism but does not present with the acute, life-threatening symptoms described in the scenario.

2. The nurse is caring for a client with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement?

• A. Encourage increased fluid intake
• B. Administer vasopressin
• C. Monitor for signs of dehydration
• D. Restrict oral fluids

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct intervention for a client with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) is to restrict oral fluids. SIADH leads to excessive release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), causing the body to retain water and diluting the sodium levels in the blood (hyponatremia). Restricting oral fluids helps prevent further water retention and worsening hyponatremia. Encouraging increased fluid intake (choice A) would exacerbate the problem by further diluting sodium levels. Administering vasopressin (choice B) is not indicated in SIADH, as the condition is characterized by excess ADH secretion. Monitoring for signs of dehydration (choice C) is not the priority in SIADH since the issue is water retention rather than dehydration.

3. A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus is being discharged after receiving initial treatment. What should the nurse emphasize as a crucial instruction?

• A. Take insulin as prescribed, even if you are not eating.
• B. Avoid all forms of physical exercise to prevent hypoglycemia.
• C. Monitor blood glucose levels regularly and report any changes.
• D. Stop taking oral antidiabetic medication if your blood glucose levels are normal.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Monitoring blood glucose levels regularly is a critical aspect of managing type 2 diabetes mellitus. This allows the individual to track their blood sugar levels, understand the effectiveness of the treatment plan, and detect any fluctuations promptly. Option A is incorrect because insulin should be taken based on a prescribed schedule that correlates with meals to prevent hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Option B is incorrect as physical exercise is beneficial for managing diabetes but should be done cautiously with adjustments in insulin or food intake. Option D is incorrect because discontinuing oral antidiabetic medications without healthcare provider guidance can lead to uncontrolled blood glucose levels.

4. Which of the following traits is characteristic of a caring leader?

• A. A caring leader serves first and leads second.
• B. A caring leader is aware of the feelings of others.
• C. The traits of a caring leader include respecting coworkers as individuals and empathizing with the needs and concerns of others.
• D. A caring leader is fair and honest.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A caring leader is characterized by respecting coworkers as individuals and empathizing with their needs and concerns. Choice A is more about servant leadership rather than specifically about caring leadership. Choice B, while related to empathy, does not encompass the full spectrum of traits associated with a caring leader. Choice D, being fair and honest, is important in leadership but does not solely define a caring leader.

5. A nurse manager conducts evaluations with each staff member and reviews the staffing needs for the upcoming year. Which of the following best describes the behavior this manager is engaging in?

• A. Interpersonal activities
• B. Decisional activities
• C. Informational activities
• D. Transformational activities

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Decisional activities. A nurse manager conducting evaluations and reviewing staffing needs for the future involves making decisions related to resource allocation, planning, and problem-solving. These activities fall under the category of decisional activities in management. Choice A, Interpersonal activities, would involve activities like communicating, motivating, and leading staff. Choice C, Informational activities, would involve activities like gathering and disseminating information. Choice D, Transformational activities, would involve inspiring and motivating staff to achieve organizational goals through vision and change.

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