Nursing Elites

1. Myxedema coma is a life-threatening complication of long-standing and untreated hypothyroidism with one of the following characteristics.

• A. Hyperglycemia
• B. Hypothermia
• C. Hyperthermia
• D. Hypoglycemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Myxedema coma is associated with hypothermia, not hyperthermia. Therefore, the correct characteristic of myxedema coma is hypothermia. This condition is a medical emergency that requires prompt recognition and intervention to prevent serious complications. The presence of hyperglycemia is not a defining characteristic of myxedema coma, making choice A the correct answer in this case. Hyperthermia and hypoglycemia are not typically seen in myxedema coma and are not consistent with the clinical presentation of this condition.

2. _____ neutralizes stomach acid in the small intestine:

• A. saliva
• B. gastric mucus
• C. bicarbonate ions
• D. enzymes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: bicarbonate ions. Bicarbonate ions, secreted by the pancreas, neutralize the acidic chyme entering the small intestine from the stomach, creating a more suitable environment for digestive enzymes. Saliva (choice A) helps in the initial breakdown of food in the mouth, not in neutralizing stomach acid. Gastric mucus (choice B) protects the stomach lining from the acidic environment but does not neutralize the acid in the small intestine. Enzymes (choice D) facilitate chemical reactions in digestion but do not neutralize stomach acid.

3. Which symptoms are associated with cancer of the colon?

• A. constipation, ascites, and mucus in the stool
• B. diarrhea, heartburn, and eructation
• C. blood in the stools, anemia, and 'pencil-shaped' stools
• D. anorexia, hematemesis, and increased peristalsis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct symptoms associated with cancer of the colon are blood in the stools, anemia, and 'pencil-shaped' stools. These symptoms are classic indicators of colorectal cancer. Choices A, B, and D do not typically present in colorectal cancer. Constipation, ascites, and mucus in the stool are more commonly associated with other gastrointestinal conditions. Diarrhea, heartburn, and eructation are not typical symptoms of colon cancer. Anorexia, hematemesis, and increased peristalsis are more indicative of other gastrointestinal issues and not specific to colon cancer.

4. Mrs. Seva also tells the nurse that she is often constipated. Because she is aging, what physical changes predispose her to constipation?

• A. inhibition of the parasympathetic reflex
• B. weakness of sphincter muscles of anus
• C. loss of tone of the smooth muscles of the colon
• D. decreased ability to absorb fluids in the lower intestines

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Effective nursing care involves comprehensive assessments that address all aspects of a patient's condition, ensuring that interventions are appropriately targeted and outcomes are optimized.

5. A client with gastroesophageal reflux disease is being taught by a nurse about managing the illness. Which of the following recommendations should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Limit fluid intake not related to meals.
• B. Chew on mint leaves to relieve indigestion.
• C. Avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime.
• D. Season foods with black pepper.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct recommendation for managing gastroesophageal reflux disease is to avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime. This helps prevent acid reflux by allowing food to digest before lying down. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Limiting fluid intake not related to meals is not a standard recommendation for managing GERD. Chewing on mint leaves may worsen symptoms as mint can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back up. Seasoning foods with black pepper does not specifically help manage GERD.

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