Nursing Elites

1. The client's B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level is 691 pg/mL. Which intervention should the nurse implement when providing care for the client?

• A. Take daily weights and monitor trends.
• B. Encourage fluid intake to improve hydration.
• C. Elevate the legs above the level of the heart.
• D. Position the client supine with the head of the bed at 30 degrees.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Elevated BNP levels are indicative of heart failure, which often causes fluid retention and weight gain. Taking daily weights and monitoring trends allows the nurse to assess for changes in fluid status. This intervention helps in evaluating the effectiveness of the treatment plan and identifying worsening heart failure symptoms early. Encouraging fluid intake (Choice B) might exacerbate fluid overload in a client with elevated BNP levels. Elevating the legs (Choice C) and positioning the client supine with the head of the bed at 30 degrees (Choice D) are interventions more suitable for clients with hypotension, not specifically indicated for managing elevated BNP levels.

2. When preparing to administer medication to a client, what action should the nurse take first?

• A. Verify the client's identity.
• B. Check the medication expiration date.
• C. Review the client's medical history.
• D. Obtain the client's vital signs.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Verifying the client's identity is the initial and most critical step in medication administration. It is crucial to confirm that the right medication is being given to the correct patient. Checking the client's identity helps prevent medication errors and ensures patient safety. Checking the medication expiration date (choice B) is important but should come after verifying the client's identity. Reviewing the client's medical history (choice C) is valuable but not the first step in medication administration. Obtaining the client's vital signs (choice D) is essential in some situations but is usually not the first action needed before administering medication.

3. A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has been taking levodopa/carbidopa for Parkinson's disease. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional report to the provider?

• A. Dry mouth
• B. Urinary retention
• C. Bradykinesia
• D. Dizziness

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Bradykinesia is a cardinal symptom of Parkinson's disease characterized by slowness of movement. An increase in bradykinesia may indicate a decline in the client's condition and the need for adjustments in their medication regimen. Therefore, the healthcare professional should promptly report this finding to the provider for further evaluation and management. Choices A, B, and D are not directly related to the client's Parkinson's disease or the medication levodopa/carbidopa. Dry mouth is a common side effect of many medications, including anticholinergics, but not specifically levodopa/carbidopa. Urinary retention and dizziness are also not typically associated with levodopa/carbidopa use for Parkinson's disease.

4. A client has a new prescription for alendronate. Which of the following instructions should be included in the teaching?

• A. Take the medication with a full glass of water.
• B. Lie down for 30 minutes after taking the medication.
• C. Take the medication at bedtime.
• D. Avoid dairy products while taking the medication.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for taking alendronate is to take it with a full glass of water to prevent esophageal irritation. This helps ensure proper absorption and reduces the risk of irritation to the esophagus. Choice B is incorrect because patients should remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate to prevent esophageal irritation. Choice C is incorrect as alendronate should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach. Choice D is also incorrect as there is no specific requirement to avoid dairy products while taking alendronate.

5. The client has angina pectoris and is prescribed nitroglycerin patches. What instruction should the nurse provide to the client?

• A. Apply the patch to the chest and leave it in place for 24 hours
• B. Apply the patch to a different site each time to prevent skin irritation
• C. Remove the patch before going to bed to prevent tolerance
• D. Cut the patch in half if experiencing headaches

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to provide to the client is to apply the nitroglycerin patch to a different site each time to prevent skin irritation. Rotating the application site is crucial to prevent skin irritation and ensure consistent absorption of the medication. Applying the patch to the same site can lead to skin irritation and decreased effectiveness. Removing the patch before going to bed is not necessary, as the patch can typically be worn for a specific duration. Cutting the patch in half if experiencing headaches is not recommended and can alter the dose of the medication.

Similar Questions