Nursing Elites

1. Following a unilateral adrenalectomy, Nurse Betty would assess for hyperkalemia indicated by which of the following signs?

• A. Muscle weakness
• B. Tremors
• C. Diaphoresis
• D. Constipation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Muscle weakness is a classic manifestation of hyperkalemia, an elevated level of potassium in the blood. After an adrenalectomy, where one adrenal gland is removed, there may be a risk of hyperkalemia due to altered hormone regulation. Tremors (Choice B) are not typically associated with hyperkalemia but may be seen in conditions like hypocalcemia. Diaphoresis (Choice C) and constipation (Choice D) are not specific indicators of hyperkalemia. Diaphoresis is excessive sweating and constipation is a common gastrointestinal issue, neither directly related to potassium imbalances.

2. A nurse is preparing to administer NPH insulin to a client with DM. The nurse notes that the NPH insulin vial is cloudy. The nurse should:

• A. Obtain a new vial of NPH insulin.
• B. Draw up the cloudy insulin as ordered.
• C. Shake the vial vigorously before drawing up the insulin.
• D. Warm the insulin to room temperature before administration.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to draw up the cloudy insulin as ordered. NPH insulin is inherently cloudy due to its suspension of insulin crystals. Shaking the vial vigorously can lead to denaturation of the insulin molecules, altering its efficacy. Warming NPH insulin is not necessary as it can cause breakdown of insulin molecules. The nurse should gently roll the vial between hands to mix it before drawing it up to ensure an even distribution of insulin in the suspension.

3. Which of the following actions by the healthcare provider would be considered false imprisonment?

• A. The healthcare provider tells the client they are not allowed to leave until the physician has released them.
• B. The healthcare provider asks the client why they wish to leave.
• C. The healthcare provider asks the client to explain what they understand about their medical diagnosis.
• D. The healthcare provider asks the client to sign an against medical advice discharge form.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. False imprisonment occurs when a healthcare provider restrains a client from leaving against their will, even if the provider believes it is in the client's best interest. In this scenario, telling the client they are not allowed to leave until the physician has released them constitutes false imprisonment as it restricts the client's freedom of movement. Choice B is incorrect because asking the client why they wish to leave is a form of assessment and does not involve restraining the client. Choice C is incorrect as it pertains to educating the client about their medical condition. Choice D is incorrect because asking the client to sign an against medical advice discharge form is a legal and ethical procedure to ensure the client understands the risks of leaving against medical advice.

4. A client with DM is experiencing symptoms of hypoglycemia. Which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Give the client a glass of orange juice.
• B. Administer insulin as ordered.
• C. Check the client's blood glucose level.
• D. Notify the healthcare provider.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct first action when a client with DM is experiencing symptoms of hypoglycemia is to check the client's blood glucose level. This step is crucial to confirm hypoglycemia before initiating any treatment. Giving the client orange juice (Choice A) is a common intervention for treating hypoglycemia, but it should not be done before confirming the blood glucose level. Administering insulin (Choice B) is not appropriate for hypoglycemia as it would further decrease the blood glucose levels. Notifying the healthcare provider (Choice D) can be important, but the immediate priority is to assess the blood glucose level to guide treatment.

5. A client with Cushing's syndrome has been prescribed a diet low in sodium. The nurse knows that the client should avoid which of the following foods?

• A. Bananas
• B. Spinach
• C. Processed meats
• D. Oatmeal

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Processed meats. Clients with Cushing's syndrome who are on a low-sodium diet should avoid processed meats because they are typically high in sodium. Bananas, spinach, and oatmeal are generally low in sodium and can be included in a low-sodium diet. Bananas are a good source of potassium, spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, and oatmeal is a healthy whole grain option. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are not the best options to avoid for a client with Cushing's syndrome following a low-sodium diet.

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