Nursing Elites

1. Diagnostic testing has been ordered to differentiate between normal anion gap acidosis and high anion gap acidosis in an acutely ill patient. What health problem typically precedes normal anion gap acidosis?

• A. Metastases
• B. Excessive potassium intake
• C. Water intoxication
• D. Excessive administration of chloride

Correct answer: D

Rationale:

2. Which hormones increase the amount of water in the body?

• A. ADH
• B. Aldosterone
• C. ANH
• D. ADH and aldosterone

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, ADH and aldosterone. Both antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and aldosterone increase water retention by the kidneys, thereby increasing blood volume. ADH acts on the kidneys to increase water reabsorption, while aldosterone acts on the kidneys to promote sodium reabsorption, leading to water retention. Choice A, ADH, is partially correct as it alone increases water retention. Choice B, aldosterone, is also partially correct as it alone increases water retention. Choice C, ANH (atrial natriuretic hormone), actually decreases water retention by promoting sodium excretion and inhibiting aldosterone release.

3. The triage nurse notes upon assessment in the emergency room that the patient with anxiety is hyperventilating. The nurse is aware that hyperventilation is the most common cause of which acid-base imbalance?

• A. Respiratory acidosis
• B. Respiratory alkalosis
• C. Metabolic acidosis
• D. Metabolic alkalosis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Respiratory alkalosis. Hyperventilation is the most common cause of acute respiratory alkalosis. When a patient hyperventilates due to anxiety or other causes, they blow off excessive carbon dioxide, leading to a decrease in PaCO2 and a rise in pH. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because hyperventilation leads to a decrease in PaCO2, causing respiratory alkalosis, not respiratory acidosis, metabolic acidosis, or metabolic alkalosis.

4. You are caring for a patient admitted with a diagnosis of acute kidney injury. When you review your patient's most recent laboratory reports, you note that the patient's magnesium levels are high. You should prioritize assessment for which of the following health problems?

• A. Diminished deep tendon reflexes
• B. Tachycardia
• C. Cool, clammy skin
• D. Acute flank pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: To assess a patient's magnesium status, the nurse should check deep tendon reflexes. Diminished deep tendon reflexes may indicate high serum magnesium levels, as hypermagnesemia can lead to neuromuscular effects. Tachycardia, cool clammy skin, and acute flank pain are not typically associated with high magnesium levels and are not priority assessments in this situation.

5. A nurse is assessing clients for fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Which client should the nurse assess first for potential hyponatremia?

• A. A 34-year-old on NPO status who is receiving intravenous D5W
• B. A 50-year-old with an infection who is prescribed a sulfonamide antibiotic
• C. A 67-year-old who is experiencing pain and is prescribed ibuprofen (Motrin)
• D. A 73-year-old with tachycardia who is receiving digoxin (Lanoxin)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the 34-year-old on NPO status receiving intravenous D5W because D5W is a hypotonic solution that can dilute the blood's sodium levels, leading to hyponatremia. Patients on NPO status rely solely on intravenous fluids for hydration, making them more susceptible to electrolyte imbalances. Choices B, C, and D are less likely to cause hyponatremia. Choice B, the 50-year-old with an infection on a sulfonamide antibiotic, is at risk for allergic reactions or renal issues. Choice C, the 67-year-old taking ibuprofen, is at risk for gastrointestinal bleeding or kidney problems. Choice D, the 73-year-old on digoxin with tachycardia, is more likely to experience digoxin toxicity, affecting the heart's rhythm.

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