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. A client with DM is scheduled to have surgery. The nurse should plan to:

• A. Give the client a regular diet as ordered.
• B. Hold the client's insulin on the morning of surgery.
• C. Monitor the client's blood glucose level closely during the perioperative period.
• D. Have the client stop taking insulin 48 hours before surgery.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor the client's blood glucose level closely during the perioperative period. This is essential to ensure that the client's blood glucose levels remain within the target range and to prevent complications such as hypo- or hyperglycemia. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because giving a regular diet as ordered, holding insulin on the morning of surgery, or stopping insulin 48 hours before surgery can lead to uncontrolled blood glucose levels, posing risks to the client's safety during the surgical procedure.

3. Which of the following best describes the nurse's role in patient education?

• A. The nurse is responsible for providing patients with information they need to make informed decisions about their care.
• B. The nurse provides education to the patient and their family to help them understand the care plan and make informed decisions.
• C. The nurse is responsible for providing patients with written materials to help them understand their condition and treatment options.
• D. The nurse provides patients with verbal and written instructions on how to manage their care at home.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The nurse's role in patient education involves providing patients with the necessary information to make informed decisions about their care. This includes explaining treatment options, potential risks and benefits, and answering any questions the patient may have. Choice B is incorrect because while nurses do educate patients and families, the primary focus is on empowering patients to make informed decisions. Choice C is incorrect as providing written materials is a part of patient education but not the sole responsibility of the nurse. Choice D is incorrect because while nurses do provide instructions on managing care at home, patient education goes beyond just the home care aspect to encompass a broader understanding of the patient's condition and treatment.

4. What is the lowest fasting plasma glucose level suggestive of a diagnosis of DM?

• A. 90 mg/dl.
• B. 115 mg/dl.
• C. 126 mg/dl.
• D. 180 mg/dl.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A fasting plasma glucose level of 126 mg/dl or higher is diagnostic of diabetes mellitus. Choice A (90 mg/dl) is too low to indicate diabetes. Choice B (115 mg/dl) is also below the diagnostic threshold for diabetes. Choice D (180 mg/dl) is above the diagnostic threshold and would indicate uncontrolled diabetes, not the lowest level suggestive of a diagnosis.

5. Which of the following describes the role of the nurse in advocating for a patient?

• A. The nurse ensures that the patient has all the information needed to make an informed decision about their care.
• B. The nurse advocates for the patient by communicating their needs and preferences to the healthcare team.
• C. The nurse advocates for the patient by ensuring that they receive the care they need and by protecting their rights.
• D. The nurse advocates for the patient by helping them navigate the healthcare system and access necessary resources.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Nurses advocate for patients by ensuring that they receive the necessary care and by protecting their rights. This involves speaking up for patients, ensuring they are treated with respect, and helping them access appropriate healthcare services. Option A, providing information for informed decision-making, is an important aspect of nursing care but not the central role of advocacy. Option B, communicating patients' needs to the healthcare team, is essential but more focused on teamwork and collaboration. Option D, helping patients navigate the healthcare system and access resources, is valuable but not the primary definition of advocacy in nursing.

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