Nursing Elites

1. Nurse Ruth is assessing a client after a thyroidectomy. The assessment reveals muscle twitching and tingling, along with numbness in the fingers, toes, and mouth area. The nurse should suspect which complication?

• A. Tetany
• B. Hemorrhage
• C. Thyroid storm
• D. Laryngeal nerve damage

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Tetany.' Tetany is characterized by muscle twitching, tingling, and numbness, which are indicative of hypocalcemia. After a thyroidectomy, accidental removal or damage to the parathyroid glands can lead to decreased calcium levels, resulting in tetany. Choice B, 'Hemorrhage,' is incorrect as it typically presents with symptoms such as sudden swelling, increased pain, or drop in blood pressure. Choice C, 'Thyroid storm,' is incorrect as it involves a sudden exacerbation of hyperthyroidism, leading to symptoms like fever, tachycardia, and confusion. Choice D, 'Laryngeal nerve damage,' is incorrect as it would manifest with voice changes, difficulty swallowing, or respiratory distress, not the symptoms described in the scenario.

2. The healthcare provider is caring for a client with Cushing's syndrome. Which of the following nursing interventions is appropriate?

• A. Monitor blood glucose levels
• B. Restrict fluid intake
• C. Administer potassium supplements
• D. Encourage a high-protein diet

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Clients with Cushing's syndrome are at risk for hyperglycemia due to the effects of cortisol on glucose metabolism. Monitoring blood glucose levels is crucial to detect and manage hyperglycemia promptly. Restricting fluid intake (choice B) is not necessary unless specifically indicated for another condition, as clients with Cushing's syndrome are prone to fluid imbalances. Administering potassium supplements (choice C) is not appropriate as clients with Cushing's syndrome often have elevated potassium levels due to the effects of cortisol. Encouraging a high-protein diet (choice D) is not recommended as clients with Cushing's syndrome should focus on a balanced diet to manage their condition effectively.

3. A client with hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine. The nurse should teach the client to take this medication:

• A. With meals
• B. Before bedtime
• C. On an empty stomach in the morning
• D. With a glass of milk

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach in the morning to enhance absorption and efficacy. Taking it with meals (Choice A) may interfere with absorption due to food interactions. Taking it before bedtime (Choice B) can lead to difficulties with absorption and may disrupt the sleep cycle. Consuming levothyroxine with a glass of milk (Choice D) is not recommended as calcium in milk can interfere with its absorption. Therefore, the best practice is to take levothyroxine on an empty stomach in the morning to ensure optimal effectiveness.

4. Which of the following ethical principles involves the fair and equitable distribution of resources?

• A. Justice
• B. Fidelity
• C. Autonomy
• D. Veracity

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Justice. Justice is the ethical principle that focuses on the fair and equitable distribution of resources, ensuring that all individuals receive appropriate care based on their needs. Fidelity (B) refers to being faithful or loyal to commitments and obligations. Autonomy (C) relates to respecting an individual's right to make their own decisions. Veracity (D) pertains to truthfulness and honesty in communication with patients.

5. Which nursing diagnosis takes the highest priority for a female client with hyperthyroidism?

• A. Risk for imbalanced nutrition: More than body requirements related to thyroid hormone excess
• B. Risk for impaired skin integrity related to edema, skin fragility, and poor wound healing
• C. Body image disturbance related to weight gain and edema
• D. Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements related to thyroid hormone excess

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements related to thyroid hormone excess. In hyperthyroidism, increased metabolic rate leads to increased nutritional needs, causing weight loss and muscle wasting. Therefore, addressing imbalanced nutrition due to excessive thyroid hormone is a priority. Choice A is incorrect as hyperthyroidism typically leads to weight loss, not weight gain. Choice B is less of a priority as skin issues are secondary to the metabolic disturbances caused by hyperthyroidism. Choice C, body image disturbance, is important but addressing the client's nutritional needs should take precedence to prevent further complications.

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