Nursing Elites

1. The healthcare provider is assessing a client who has just undergone a thoracentesis. Which finding should be reported immediately?

• A. Diminished breath sounds on the affected side.
• B. Pain at the procedure site.
• C. Blood-tinged sputum.
• D. Shortness of breath.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Shortness of breath should be reported immediately as it may indicate a pneumothorax, a potential complication of thoracentesis. Diminished breath sounds on the affected side, pain at the procedure site, and blood-tinged sputum are common findings post-thoracentesis and do not necessarily indicate immediate complications like a pneumothorax.

2. A client with a diagnosis of heart failure is receiving furosemide (Lasix). Which electrolyte imbalance should the nurse monitor for?

• A. Hyperkalemia.
• B. Hyponatremia.
• C. Hypocalcemia.
• D. Hypokalemia.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hypokalemia. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can cause potassium loss, leading to hypokalemia. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the client for low potassium levels. Choice A, Hyperkalemia, is incorrect as furosemide does not typically cause high potassium levels. Choice B, Hyponatremia, is incorrect as furosemide primarily affects potassium levels, not sodium. Choice C, Hypocalcemia, is incorrect as furosemide does not directly impact calcium levels.

3. Which organ lies retroperitoneally?

• A. Kidneys
• B. Testicles
• C. Urinary bladder
• D. Pancreas

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Kidneys. The kidneys are located retroperitoneally, behind the peritoneum, providing structural protection and maintaining a stable position within the abdominal cavity. This location helps protect them from external physical trauma. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because testicles, urinary bladder, and pancreas are not located retroperitoneally. Testicles are located in the scrotum, the urinary bladder is located in the pelvis, and the pancreas is located in the upper abdomen, not retroperitoneally.

4. A client with a history of seizures is being discharged home. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to provide?

• A. Take your medication as prescribed.
• B. Avoid driving until your condition is stable.
• C. Keep a seizure diary.
• D. Avoid alcohol consumption.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most important instruction for a client with a history of seizures being discharged home is to take their medication as prescribed. Consistent and timely intake of anti-seizure medication is vital in managing seizures and preventing episodes. While instructions like avoiding driving until the condition is stable, keeping a seizure diary, and avoiding alcohol consumption are important, none are as critical as ensuring proper medication adherence to control seizures effectively. Failure to take prescribed medications can lead to breakthrough seizures, compromising the patient's safety and seizure control.

5. The nurse is monitoring a client who started taking a new medication for rheumatoid arthritis. What is the most important aspect to monitor?

• A. Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding
• B. Liver function tests
• C. Renal function tests
• D. All necessary monitoring based on the medication prescribed

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a client starts a new medication for rheumatoid arthritis, it is crucial to monitor all necessary aspects based on the specific medication prescribed. Different medications can have varying side effects and impacts on different organ systems. Monitoring all relevant parameters ensures the early detection of any adverse effects and helps to maintain the client's safety. While monitoring for signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, liver function tests, and renal function tests are all important in certain situations, the priority is to conduct comprehensive monitoring based on the medication's known effects.

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