Nursing Elites

1. Retention of electrolytes (especially sodium) in the interstitial fluid can result from:

• A. decreased aldosterone secretion.
• B. increased ADH secretion.
• C. increased aldosterone secretion.
• D. decreased ADH secretion.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: increased aldosterone secretion. Aldosterone, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, increases sodium reabsorption in the kidneys, leading to retention of sodium and water in the interstitial fluid. Increased aldosterone secretion enhances the reabsorption of sodium, thereby increasing its retention. Choice A is incorrect because decreased aldosterone secretion would lead to less sodium reabsorption and increased excretion. Choice B is incorrect because increased ADH secretion primarily affects water reabsorption rather than sodium. Choice D is incorrect because decreased ADH secretion would lead to increased water excretion but not necessarily affect sodium retention.

2. A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing excessive diarrhea. The clients arterial blood gas values are pH 7.28, PaO2 98 mm Hg, PaCO2 45 mm Hg, and HCO3 16 mEq/L. Which provider order should the nurse expect to receive?

• A. Furosemide (Lasix) 40 mg intravenous push
• B. Sodium bicarbonate 100 mEq diluted in 1 L of D5W
• C. Mechanical ventilation
• D. Indwelling urinary catheter

Correct answer: B

Rationale:

3. During a visit to an 84-year-old woman recovering from hip surgery, the nurse notices signs of confusion and poor skin turgor. The woman mentions she limits water intake to avoid nighttime bathroom trips. The nurse should explain to the woman that:

• A. She will need her medications adjusted and be readmitted for a complete workup.
• B. Limiting fluids can lead to body imbalances causing confusion; perhaps adjusting fluid intake timing is necessary.
• C. Post-surgical confusion is common, and it's safe not to urinate at night.
• D. Confusion after surgery is typical in the elderly due to sleep loss.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. In elderly patients, fluid and electrolyte imbalances can manifest with subtle signs like confusion. Limiting fluids can lead to such imbalances, affecting cognitive function. Adjusting the timing of fluid intake can help maintain hydration without causing nighttime disruptions. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A suggests unnecessary hospital readmission and medication adjustments without addressing the root cause. Choice C wrongly normalizes the confusion and fails to address the potential issue of fluid restriction. Choice D incorrectly attributes confusion solely to sleep loss without considering the impact of fluid balance.

4. A patient admitted with a gastrointestinal bleed and anemia is receiving a blood transfusion. Based on the patient's hypotensive blood pressure, the nurse anticipates an order for IV fluids from the physician. Which of the following IV solutions may be administered with blood products?

• A. D5 and 0.45% Normal Saline
• B. Lactated Ringer's
• C. 5% dextrose in water
• D. 0.9% NaCl

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 0.9% NaCl. The only IV solution that can be administered with blood products is normal saline (0.9% NaCl). This solution is compatible with most blood products and is commonly used during transfusions to maintain hemodynamic stability. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Choice A, D5 and 0.45% Normal Saline, contains dextrose and is not recommended to be given simultaneously with blood products. Choice B, Lactated Ringer's, contains calcium, which can cause coagulation and should not be mixed with blood. Choice C, 5% dextrose in water, is hypotonic and not suitable to be administered with blood products.

5. Which hormone reduces the amount of water in the body?

• A. ADH
• B. aldosterone
• C. ANH
• D. ADH and aldosterone

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'aldosterone.' Aldosterone is the hormone that reduces the amount of water in the body by increasing the reabsorption of sodium and water from the kidney tubules. ANH (atrial natriuretic hormone) actually works to increase the excretion of sodium and water by the kidneys, leading to a reduction in blood volume and pressure. ADH (antidiuretic hormone) works to increase water reabsorption by the kidneys, thereby increasing blood volume. Therefore, choices A (ADH) and D (ADH and aldosterone) are incorrect in the context of reducing the amount of water in the body.

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