Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a client with cirrhosis of the liver and suspects that the client may be developing hepatic encephalopathy. Which assessment by the nurse suggests that the client is developing this complication?

• A. Asterixis
• B. Hypertension
• C. Kussmaul respirations
• D. Lethargy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Asterixis, also known as flapping tremors, is a characteristic sign of hepatic encephalopathy. It is a flapping tremor of the hands when the wrists are extended, indicating neurological impairment. Hypertension and Kussmaul respirations are not directly associated with hepatic encephalopathy. Lethargy is a common symptom but not a specific sign that suggests the development of hepatic encephalopathy.

2. A patient has been diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome. Which of the following statements is the most applicable when discussing the impairments with Guillain-Barre Syndrome with the patient?

• A. Guillain-Barre Syndrome improves in almost all cases within 5 years.
• B. Guillain-Barre Syndrome causes limited sensation in the abdominal region.
• C. Guillain-Barre Syndrome causes muscle weakness in the legs.
• D. Guillain-Barre Syndrome affects breathing in severe cases.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct statement is that Guillain-Barre Syndrome causes muscle weakness in the legs. This muscle weakness typically starts in the legs and can progress to the upper body. Choice A is incorrect as while most cases do improve, the recovery time can vary. Choice B is incorrect as Guillain-Barre Syndrome primarily affects muscle weakness rather than sensation. Choice D is incorrect as severe cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome can lead to respiratory muscle weakness, impacting breathing.

3. A patient has been prescribed Tegretol for the first time. Which of the following side effects is not associated with Tegretol?

• A. Sore throat
• B. Vertigo
• C. Fever
• D. Shortness of breath

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Shortness of breath.' Side effects commonly associated with Tegretol include sore throat, vertigo, and fever. Shortness of breath is not a typical side effect of Tegretol use. Sore throat, vertigo, and fever are known side effects of Tegretol, while shortness of breath is not typically linked to its use.

4. Which system is primarily affected by tuberculosis (Mycobacterium)?

• A. stomach (GI)
• B. heart (cardiac)
• C. lungs (respiratory)
• D. skin (integumentary)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affects the respiratory system. This aerobic bacillus thrives in highly oxygenated body sites, such as the lungs, growing ends of bones, and the brain. The bacillus is airborne, making the lungs a common site for infection. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as tuberculosis predominantly impacts the respiratory system and rarely involves the stomach, heart, or skin.

5. A patient 3 hours post-op from a hysterectomy is complaining of intense pain at the incision site. When assessing the patient, the nurse notes a BP of 169/93, pulse 145 bpm, and regular. What action should the nurse take?

• A. Reassure the patient that pain is normal following surgery.
• B. Administer prn Nifedipine and assess the client's response.
• C. Administer prn Meperidine HCL and assess the client's response.
• D. Recheck BP and pulse rate every 20 minutes for the next hour.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation is to administer prn Meperidine HCL and assess the client's response. A BP of 169/93 and a pulse of 145 bpm indicate pain-related hypertension and sinus tachycardia, which are physiological responses to pain. Treating the cause of the increased pulse rate requires pain medication. Reassuring the patient about normal post-surgery pain is important, but addressing the physiological responses to pain is a priority. Administering Nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker, is not indicated for pain management but for hypertension. Rechecking the BP and pulse rate without addressing the pain directly does not address the underlying issue causing the elevated vital signs.

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