Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a client with congestive heart failure. On assessment, the nurse notes that the client is dyspneic and that crackles are audible on auscultation. The nurse suspects excess fluid volume. What additional signs would the nurse expect to note in this client if excess fluid volume is present?

• A. Weight loss
• B. Flat neck and hand veins
• C. An increase in blood pressure
• D. A decreased central venous pressure (CVP)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: An increase in blood pressure is a common sign of fluid volume excess in clients with congestive heart failure due to the increased amount of fluid in the vascular system. Weight loss (Choice A) is not typically associated with fluid volume excess. Flat neck and hand veins (Choice B) are signs of fluid volume deficit, not excess. A decreased central venous pressure (CVP) (Choice D) is not expected in a client with fluid volume excess.

2. Which of the following is a priority nursing diagnosis for a client with Addison's disease?

• A. Fluid volume deficit
• B. Risk for infection
• C. Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements
• D. Disturbed body image

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing diagnosis for a client with Addison's disease is 'Fluid volume deficit.' Addison's disease is characterized by adrenal insufficiency, resulting in decreased aldosterone production. Aldosterone plays a key role in sodium and water retention in the body. With its deficiency, there is an increased risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, leading to fluid volume deficit. While infection risk, nutrition issues, and body image disturbances are also important considerations for holistic care, addressing the fluid volume deficit takes precedence due to the immediate physiological impact on the client's health and well-being.

3. A client with hyperthyroidism is prescribed propranolol. The nurse understands that this medication is used to:

• A. Increase metabolism
• B. Reduce anxiety
• C. Decrease heart rate
• D. Increase blood pressure

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Propranolol is a beta-blocker commonly used in the management of hyperthyroidism. It works by blocking the effects of adrenaline, resulting in a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure. Choice A is incorrect because propranolol does not increase metabolism; instead, it may have a mild inhibitory effect. Choice B is incorrect as propranolol is not primarily used to reduce anxiety, although it may have some anxiolytic effects. Choice D is incorrect as propranolol actually decreases blood pressure by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart and blood vessels.

4. An agitated, confused female client arrives in the emergency department. Her history includes type 1 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and angina pectoris. Assessment reveals pallor, diaphoresis, headache, and intense hunger. A stat blood glucose sample measures 42 mg/dl, and the client is treated for an acute hypoglycemic reaction. After recovery, the nurse teaches the client to treat hypoglycemia by ingesting:

• A. 2 to 5 g of a simple carbohydrate.
• B. 10 to 15 g of a simple carbohydrate.
• C. 18 to 20 g of a simple carbohydrate.
• D. 25 to 30 g of a simple carbohydrate.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 10 to 15 g of a simple carbohydrate. In the treatment of hypoglycemia, it is important to administer a specific amount of simple carbohydrates to raise blood glucose levels effectively without causing hyperglycemia. 10 to 15 g of simple carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets, fruit juice, or regular soft drinks, is recommended to rapidly increase blood sugar levels in clients experiencing hypoglycemia. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they either provide too little or too much glucose, which may not effectively treat the hypoglycemic episode or may lead to rebound hyperglycemia.

5. Nurse Ruth is assessing a client after a thyroidectomy. The assessment reveals muscle twitching and tingling, along with numbness in the fingers, toes, and mouth area. The nurse should suspect which complication?

• A. Tetany
• B. Hemorrhage
• C. Thyroid storm
• D. Laryngeal nerve damage

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Tetany.' Tetany is characterized by muscle twitching, tingling, and numbness, which are indicative of hypocalcemia. After a thyroidectomy, accidental removal or damage to the parathyroid glands can lead to decreased calcium levels, resulting in tetany. Choice B, 'Hemorrhage,' is incorrect as it typically presents with symptoms such as sudden swelling, increased pain, or drop in blood pressure. Choice C, 'Thyroid storm,' is incorrect as it involves a sudden exacerbation of hyperthyroidism, leading to symptoms like fever, tachycardia, and confusion. Choice D, 'Laryngeal nerve damage,' is incorrect as it would manifest with voice changes, difficulty swallowing, or respiratory distress, not the symptoms described in the scenario.

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