Nursing Elites

1. What physiologic role does calcium play in the body?

• A. Blood clotting, transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction and relaxation
• B. Calcium homeostasis, structural integrity of heart muscle
• C. No known metabolic function, caries-preventing properties
• D. ATP energy release; metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, proteins; regulates acid-base balance.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Blood clotting, transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction and relaxation.' Calcium plays a crucial role in various physiological functions such as blood clotting, transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction and relaxation, membrane permeability, and activation of certain enzymes. Choice B is incorrect because while calcium is involved in calcium homeostasis, it is not the only role it plays in the body. Choice C is incorrect as calcium indeed has several known metabolic functions, and it is not solely for preventing caries. Choice D is also incorrect as the functions mentioned are primarily carried out by other nutrients and not specifically by calcium.

2. What laboratory value would be considered a high-risk measure for coronary heart disease assessment?

• A. triglycerides > 150 mg/dL
• B. BMI > 31
• C. LDL cholesterol < 128 mg/dL
• D. blood pressure of 128/82 mmHg

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: BMI > 31. A BMI over 31 is considered a high-risk factor for coronary heart disease as it indicates obesity, which is strongly linked to cardiovascular issues. Triglycerides > 150 mg/dL (choice A) can contribute to heart disease risk but are not as specific as BMI in assessing overall risk. LDL cholesterol < 128 mg/dL (choice C) is actually a desirable level, indicating lower risk. A blood pressure of 128/82 mmHg (choice D) is within normal range and not a high-risk measure specifically for coronary heart disease.

3. Approximately 70 to 80 percent of acute pancreatitis cases are caused by gallstones or _____.

• A. infection
• B. alcohol abuse
• C. diabetes
• D. obesity

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Alcohol abuse is indeed a major cause of acute pancreatitis, along with gallstones, accounting for the majority of cases. While infections, diabetes, and obesity can also contribute to pancreatitis, they are not as prevalent as alcohol abuse and gallstones in causing acute pancreatitis.

4. A client receiving continuous enteral tube feeding reports cramping and abdominal distention. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Check for gastric residual.
• B. Apply low intermittent suction.
• C. Increase the rate of the feeding.
• D. Request a higher-fat formula.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a client on continuous enteral tube feeding experiences cramping and abdominal distention, the nurse should check for gastric residual. This assessment helps determine if the client is tolerating the feeding well or if there is a potential issue such as feeding intolerance. Applying low intermittent suction, increasing the feeding rate, or requesting a higher-fat formula are not appropriate actions for addressing the reported symptoms and may exacerbate the client's discomfort or lead to further complications.

5. Mrs. Seva also tells the nurse that she is often constipated. Because she is aging, what physical changes predispose her to constipation?

• A. inhibition of the parasympathetic reflex
• B. weakness of sphincter muscles of anus
• C. loss of tone of the smooth muscles of the colon
• D. decreased ability to absorb fluids in the lower intestines

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Effective nursing care involves comprehensive assessments that address all aspects of a patient's condition, ensuring that interventions are appropriately targeted and outcomes are optimized.

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