Nursing Elites

1. When drawing blood from the diabetic patient for a glycosylated hemoglobin (HBA1c) test, the nurse explains to the woman that the test is used to determine:

• A. The highest glucose level in the past week.
• B. Her insulin levels.
• C. Glucose levels over the past three months.
• D. Her usual fasting glucose level.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The glycosylated hemoglobin (HBA1c) test reflects the average blood sugar levels over the past three months. It provides a more comprehensive view of the individual's glucose control compared to a single point-in-time measurement like a fasting glucose level or the highest glucose level in the past week. Choice A is incorrect because it focuses on a single high glucose level rather than the overall control over a period. Choice B is incorrect as HBA1c is not a test for insulin levels. Choice D is incorrect as the HBA1c test does not reflect a single fasting glucose level but rather an average over a more extended period.

2. A 30-year-old woman is 22 weeks pregnant with her first child. She tells you that her rings are not fitting as loosely as they usually do and that her ankles are swollen. Her blood pressure is 150/86 mm Hg. She is MOST likely experiencing:

• A. a condition unrelated to pregnancy.
• B. gestational diabetes.
• C. a hypertensive emergency.
• D. preeclampsia.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The symptoms of swollen ankles, tight rings, and elevated blood pressure in a pregnant woman at 22 weeks gestation are concerning for preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, commonly seen with symptoms such as swelling (edema) and protein in the urine. It is crucial to monitor and manage preeclampsia promptly as it can lead to severe complications for both the mother and the baby.

3. What advice should a school-age child with type 1 diabetes mellitus follow to prevent hypoglycemia during soccer practice?

• A. Drink a cup of orange juice before soccer practice
• B. Eat twice the amount normally eaten at lunchtime
• C. Take half the amount of prescribed insulin on practice days
• D. Take the prescribed insulin at noontime rather than in the morning

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Drinking orange juice before soccer practice is recommended to prevent hypoglycemia in children with type 1 diabetes. Orange juice contains fast-acting carbohydrates that can quickly raise blood sugar levels if they drop during physical activity. Eating twice the amount normally eaten at lunchtime can lead to hyperglycemia, which is high blood sugar, rather than preventing hypoglycemia. Adjusting insulin doses should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Taking insulin at noontime rather than in the morning does not directly address preventing hypoglycemia during afternoon soccer practice.

4. Jaundice in children can be either pathological or physiological. Which of these will you consider as more serious?

• A. Jaundice seen within 24 hours of life
• B. Jaundice seen at the palms and soles
• C. Jaundice appearing after 24 hours of life
• D. Jaundice seen after 14 days of life

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Jaundice seen within 24 hours of life is considered more serious in children as it can indicate pathological causes such as hemolytic disease or sepsis, which require prompt evaluation and management to prevent complications. Jaundice appearing within 24 hours of life is concerning due to the higher likelihood of severe conditions, while jaundice seen at the palms and soles is more likely due to physiological causes such as breast milk jaundice. Jaundice appearing after 24 hours or after 14 days of life may still require evaluation but is less urgent compared to jaundice within the first 24 hours.

5. The healthcare provider is assessing a newborn who had undergone vaginal delivery. Which of the following findings is least likely to be observed in a normal newborn?

• A. (+) Moro reflex
• B. Heart rate is 80 bpm
• C. Respirations are irregular
• D. Uneven head shape

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A heart rate of 80 bpm is least likely to be observed in a normal newborn. The normal heart rate range for a newborn is usually higher than 80 bpm, typically ranging from 120-160 bpm. The Moro reflex (choice A) is a normal newborn reflex, respirations being irregular (choice C) are expected due to the immature respiratory control center, and an uneven head shape (choice D) is common due to molding during vaginal delivery.

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