Nursing Elites

1. Insulin forces which of the following electrolytes out of the plasma and into the cells?

• A. Calcium
• B. Magnesium
• C. Phosphorus
• D. Potassium

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Insulin forces potassium out of the plasma and into the cells, which can cause hypokalemia. This is because insulin enhances the activity of the sodium-potassium pump in cell membranes, promoting the movement of potassium from the extracellular fluid into the cells. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as insulin does not directly influence the movement of calcium, magnesium, or phosphorus in the same manner as it does with potassium.

2. A patient's serum potassium level is 2.2 mEq/L. Which nursing action is the highest priority for this patient?

• A. Start oxygen at 2 L/min
• B. Initiate cardiac monitoring
• C. Initiate seizure precautions
• D. Keep the patient on bed rest

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to initiate cardiac monitoring. Severe hypokalemia can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias, making cardiac monitoring the priority to detect and manage any cardiac complications. Starting oxygen, seizure precautions, or bed rest are not the immediate priority actions for severe hypokalemia.

3. Which patient is at greatest risk for papilledema?

• A. An elderly patient with cataracts and macular degeneration
• B. A male patient with hypothyroidism
• C. A male patient with hyperthyroidism
• D. An adolescent with a closed head injury

Correct answer: D

Rationale: An adolescent with a closed head injury is at the highest risk for papilledema due to increased intracranial pressure. Papilledema is often a consequence of elevated intracranial pressure, which can occur in conditions like head trauma. Choices A, B, and C do not directly correlate with an increased risk of papilledema compared to a closed head injury, which is more likely to lead to elevated intracranial pressure and subsequent papilledema.

4. How do the public view nurses today?

• A. Nurses are assistants to physicians.
• B. Nurses view the person within the family and community.
• C. Nurses are different from other health-care providers.
• D. Nurses are closely involved in shaping the health care of the future.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Nurses are assistants to physicians.' The public image of nurses, as portrayed by the media, often positions them as assistants to physicians. This perception stems from historical depictions and the traditional hierarchy within healthcare settings. Choice B is incorrect because it reflects how nurses perceive their patients, not how the public views nurses. Choice C is incorrect as nurses are part of the broader healthcare team but are not seen as fundamentally different from other healthcare providers by the public. Choice D is incorrect as while nurses play a crucial role in shaping healthcare, the public perception often focuses more on their supportive role in the healthcare system.

5. Based on the signs and symptoms of erythema marginatum, Sydenham chorea, epistaxis, abdominal pain, fever, cardiac problems, and skin nodules in your 32-year-old female patient, what disorder would you most likely suspect?

• A. Leukemia
• B. Histoplasmosis
• C. Pneumocystis jiroveci
• D. Rheumatoid arthritis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The signs and symptoms described point towards rheumatoid arthritis. Erythema marginatum, Sydenham chorea, epistaxis, abdominal pain, fever, cardiac issues, and skin nodules are classic manifestations of rheumatic fever, which is a complication of untreated streptococcal infection. This condition can lead to rheumatoid arthritis over time. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not align with the provided signs and symptoms, and they are not associated with the clinical presentation described.

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