Nursing Elites

1. During a late-night study session, a pathophysiology student reaches out to turn the page of her textbook. Which component of her nervous system contains the highest level of control of her arm and hand action?

• A. Cerebral cortex
• B. Basal ganglia
• C. Brainstem
• D. Cerebellum

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cerebral cortex. The cerebral cortex, particularly the motor cortex, is responsible for the voluntary control of precise movements such as turning a page. The cerebral cortex plays a crucial role in the highest level of control of motor functions, including those of the arm and hand. Choice B, Basal ganglia, is more involved in motor planning and coordination, while choice C, Brainstem, is responsible for basic life functions and reflexes. Choice D, Cerebellum, is primarily involved in coordination, precision, and accurate timing of movements, rather than the highest level of control for specific actions like page-turning.

2. A patient with a history of breast cancer is prescribed tamoxifen (Nolvadex). What critical information should the nurse include in the patient education?

• A. Tamoxifen may increase the risk of venous thromboembolism, so patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of blood clots.
• B. Tamoxifen may cause weight gain, so patients should monitor their diet.
• C. Tamoxifen may decrease the risk of osteoporosis, so patients should ensure adequate calcium intake.
• D. Tamoxifen may cause hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Tamoxifen increases the risk of venous thromboembolism, so patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of blood clots and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if they occur.

3. In the ICU setting, a client transported from surgery following open heart bypass grafting will likely have his or her core temperature measured by:

• A. oral thermometer.
• B. rectal thermometer.
• C. esophageal thermometer.
• D. temporal artery thermometer.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: An esophageal thermometer is commonly used in ICU settings to accurately measure core body temperature, especially in post-surgical patients. The esophageal thermometer provides a more precise measurement of core temperature compared to other methods like oral, rectal, or temporal artery thermometers. In the ICU, accuracy in temperature measurement is crucial for detecting and responding to changes promptly, making the esophageal thermometer the preferred choice in this scenario.

4. A client arrives with symptoms of stroke. What should the nurse assess first?

• A. Level of consciousness
• B. Blood pressure
• C. Pupil reaction
• D. Heart rate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Assessing the level of consciousness is a critical first step in evaluating a potential stroke. Changes in the level of consciousness can indicate the severity and location of brain damage, helping to guide immediate interventions. Assessing blood pressure, pupil reaction, and heart rate are also important aspects of the assessment in a suspected stroke patient. However, the priority is to quickly determine the client's level of consciousness to assess their neurological status.

5. Which of the following hormones do the kidneys secrete to increase red blood cell production?

• A. Erythropoietin
• B. Insulin and glycogen
• C. Testosterone
• D. Thyroid stimulating hormone

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Erythropoietin. The kidneys produce erythropoietin to stimulate the production of red blood cells. Insulin and glycogen are not hormones secreted by the kidneys; insulin is produced by the pancreas, and glycogen is a stored form of glucose. Testosterone is a hormone primarily produced by the testes in males and to a lesser extent in females. Thyroid stimulating hormone is produced by the pituitary gland to regulate thyroid function, not red blood cell production.

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