Nursing Elites

1. Phenazopyridine is commonly prescribed for clients with urinary tract infections (UTI). Which statement by the practical nurse describes the purpose for the administration of phenazopyridine?

• A. To alter the pH level of the urine
• B. To reduce the frequency of bladder spasms
• C. To alleviate the painful symptoms caused by the UTI
• D. To prevent bacterial replication and resistance development

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Phenazopyridine, a urinary analgesic, is utilized to alleviate the pain associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) like burning, pain, urgency, and frequent voiding. The administration of phenazopyridine can cause the urine to turn a bright red-orange color. It is recommended to take this medication with food to reduce gastric irritation. Phenazopyridine should only be used for a maximum of 2 days when taken alongside an antibacterial agent, which is typically prescribed for about 2 weeks to treat the underlying infection.

2. A client with a history of deep vein thrombosis is prescribed enoxaparin. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?

• A. Increased risk of bleeding
• B. Decreased risk of bleeding
• C. Increased risk of infection
• D. Decreased risk of infection

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Enoxaparin is an anticoagulant that works by preventing blood clots. One of the potential adverse effects of enoxaparin is an increased risk of bleeding due to its anticoagulant properties. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, such as easy bruising, petechiae, or blood in stool or urine, to ensure timely intervention and prevent complications.

3. Which action should be taken to assess for analgesic tolerance in a client who is unable to communicate?

• A. Review the client's laboratory values for changes in peak and trough levels of the analgesic
• B. Prolong the interval between analgesic medication doses and monitor the client's vital signs
• C. Observe the client for the presence of pain behaviors before the next analgesic dose is due
• D. Ask family members to report behaviors suggesting that the client's pain has returned

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In clients who are unable to communicate, observing for pain behaviors is crucial in assessing analgesic tolerance. Changes in pain behaviors can indicate if the current analgesic regimen is effective or if tolerance has developed. Therefore, closely observing the client for pain behaviors before the next analgesic dose helps healthcare providers evaluate the client's response to pain management. Reviewing laboratory values may not directly reflect analgesic tolerance. Prolonging the interval between doses and monitoring vital signs may not provide direct information on analgesic tolerance. Relying solely on family members to report pain behaviors may not be as accurate or immediate as observing the client directly.

4. A healthcare professional prepares to administer a scheduled dose of labetalol by mouth to a client with hypertension. The client's heart rate is 48 beats/min, respirations are 16 breaths/min, and blood pressure is 150/90 mmHg.

• A. Administer the dose and monitor the client's blood pressure regularly
• B. Apply a telemetry monitor before administering the dose
• C. Assess for orthostatic hypotension before administering the dose
• D. Withhold the scheduled dose and notify the healthcare provider

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The client's low heart rate of 48 beats/min indicates bradycardia, a potential side effect of labetalol. Administering the dose in this case could further lower the heart rate, potentially causing adverse effects. Therefore, it is crucial to withhold the scheduled dose and notify the healthcare provider for further assessment and guidance. Choice A is incorrect because administering the dose without addressing the bradycardia can exacerbate the condition. Choice B is not relevant in this situation as telemetry monitoring is not the priority. Choice C is also not the priority in this case, as the focus should be on the client's bradycardia and the potential adverse effects of administering labetalol.

5. When should a glucagon emergency kit be used for a client with Type 1 diabetes?

• A. During episodes of hypoglycemia
• B. At the onset of signs of diabetic ketoacidosis
• C. Before meals to prevent hyperglycemia
• D. When signs of severe hypoglycemia occur

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A glucagon emergency kit is used when signs of severe hypoglycemia occur in a client with Type 1 diabetes. Glucagon helps raise blood glucose levels in cases of severe hypoglycemia when the individual is unable to take oral glucose. It is crucial to administer glucagon promptly to prevent serious complications associated with low blood sugar levels. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because a glucagon emergency kit is specifically indicated for severe hypoglycemia, not for general episodes of hypoglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, or prevention of hyperglycemia.

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