Nursing Elites

1. If a client is suffering from thyroid storm, the PN can expect to find on assessment:

• A. tachycardia and hyperthermia.
• B. bradycardia and hypothermia.
• C. a large goiter.
• D. a calm, quiet client

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In thyroid storm, there is an excess of thyroxine, leading to symptoms such as tachycardia (rapid heart rate) and hyperthermia (increased body temperature). Atrial fibrillation and palpitations are also commonly observed. Choices B and C are more indicative of hypothyroidism, where the thyroid is underactive, leading to bradycardia (slow heart rate), hypothermia (decreased body temperature), and the development of a large goiter. Choice D, a calm, quiet client, is unlikely in a thyroid storm where the individual would typically present with symptoms of agitation and restlessness due to the hypermetabolic state.

2. After an escharotomy of the forearm, what is the priority nursing assessment for the client who has returned to your unit?

• A. Infection
• B. Incision
• C. Pain
• D. Tissue perfusion

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is "Tissue perfusion." After an escharotomy, the priority assessment is to ensure adequate tissue perfusion to the affected limb. Escharotomy is performed to relieve circulatory compromise by cutting through the eschar, so monitoring tissue perfusion is crucial to assess the effectiveness of the procedure and prevent complications. Assessing for infection is important but comes after ensuring adequate tissue perfusion. Checking the incision is necessary but assessing tissue perfusion takes precedence. Pain assessment is important but not the priority compared to assessing tissue perfusion to prevent ischemic complications.

3. The nurse is caring for a 44-year-old client diagnosed with hypoparathyroidism. Which electrolyte imbalance is closely associated with hypoparathyroidism?

• A. Hypocalcemia.
• B. Hyponatremia.
• C. Hyperkalemia.
• D. Hypophosphatemia.

Correct answer: A.

Rationale: The correct answer is Hypocalcemia. In hypoparathyroidism, where the parathyroid glands are not producing sufficient parathyroid hormone, calcium levels become inadequate. This leads to hypocalcemia, characterized by symptoms such as muscle spasms, anxiety, seizures, hypotension, and congestive heart failure. Hyponatremia and hyperkalemia are not typically associated with hypoparathyroidism. While hyperphosphatemia can be seen in hypoparathyroidism due to decreasing calcium levels, the question specifically asks about the primary electrolyte imbalance closely related to hypoparathyroidism, which is hypocalcemia.

4. Which of the following food selections would need to be removed from a tray for a client recovering from thyroidectomy?

• A. Fresh apple
• B. V8 juice
• C. Mustard greens
• D. Ice cream

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is a fresh apple. After a thyroidectomy, it is important to avoid hard and crunchy foods like apples due to the proximity of the esophagus to the surgical site. Apples can be difficult to chew and swallow, posing a risk of injury or discomfort to the patient. V8 juice, mustard greens, and ice cream are softer options that would be more suitable for a client recovering from thyroidectomy.

5. What must the evening nurse do to facilitate the client's ECT treatment the next morning?

• A. Ensure the patient signs an informed consent form
• B. Administer evening medications
• C. Ensure the patient gets a good night's sleep
• D. Provide dietary restrictions as per ECT protocol

Correct answer: A

Rationale: For electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) treatment, obtaining informed consent is crucial before the procedure. This ensures the patient is aware of the risks, benefits, and alternatives to the treatment. Administering medications, ensuring rest, and dietary restrictions are important but not directly related to the specific requirement of obtaining informed consent for ECT. The correct answer, ensuring the patient signs an informed consent form, is essential to uphold the patient's autonomy and ensure they have the necessary information to make an informed decision about their treatment.

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