Nursing Elites

1. When administering enoxaparin (Lovenox) to a client, what is the most important lab value to monitor?

• A. Platelet count
• B. aPTT
• C. Hemoglobin
• D. INR

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Platelet count. When administering enoxaparin (Lovenox), it is crucial to monitor the platelet count because enoxaparin can cause a rare but serious side effect known as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, which is a decrease in platelet count that can lead to increased risk of bleeding. Monitoring the platelet count allows for early detection of this potential complication. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because aPTT, Hemoglobin, and INR are not the most important lab values to monitor specifically when administering enoxaparin.

2. Which chronic condition is characterized by abnormally thickened heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently?

• A. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
• B. Dilated cardiomyopathy
• C. Restrictive cardiomyopathy
• D. Ventricular hypertrophy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the correct answer. In this condition, the heart muscle becomes abnormally thickened, leading to difficulties in pumping blood efficiently. Dilated cardiomyopathy (choice B) involves the enlargement of the heart chambers, not thickening of the heart muscle. Restrictive cardiomyopathy (choice C) is characterized by stiffening of the heart muscle, impairing its ability to fill properly. Ventricular hypertrophy (choice D) refers to the thickening of the heart's ventricle walls, which can result from various conditions, not solely hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

3. The client is receiving digoxin and has a potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L. What is the nurse’s priority action?

• A. Hold the digoxin and notify the healthcare provider.
• B. Increase the dose of digoxin.
• C. Continue the current dose of digoxin.
• D. Administer potassium supplements.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to hold the digoxin and notify the healthcare provider. A potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L indicates hypokalemia, which can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. Holding the medication and informing the healthcare provider is crucial to prevent adverse effects. Choice B is incorrect because increasing the dose of digoxin would further raise the risk of toxicity. Choice C is incorrect as continuing the current dose could exacerbate the toxicity risk. Choice D is incorrect because administering potassium supplements alone is not sufficient to address the potential digoxin toxicity; the first step should be to hold the digoxin and seek further guidance.

4. What is a chronic lung disease that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema?

• A. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• B. Pneumonia
• C. Asthma
• D. Tuberculosis

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). COPD is a chronic lung condition that encompasses chronic bronchitis and emphysema, causing airflow obstruction from the lungs. Pneumonia (choice B) is an infection in the lungs, while asthma (choice C) is characterized by airway inflammation and constriction. Tuberculosis (choice D) is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but is distinct from COPD.

5. The client asks about side effects of taking digoxin. How does the nurse respond?

• A. Anorexia can be a side effect of digoxin.
• B. Tachycardia can be a side effect of digoxin.
• C. Constipation can be a side effect of digoxin.
• D. Urinary retention can be a side effect of digoxin.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Anorexia can be a side effect of digoxin.' Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are commonly known side effects of digoxin. Choice B, 'Tachycardia can be a side effect of digoxin,' is incorrect as digoxin is used to treat tachycardia, not cause it. Choice C, 'Constipation can be a side effect of digoxin,' is incorrect as constipation is not a typical side effect of digoxin. Choice D, 'Urinary retention can be a side effect of digoxin,' is also incorrect as urinary retention is not a common side effect associated with digoxin use.

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