Nursing Elites

1. When educating a client about to undergo a pacemaker insertion, the nurse explains the normal phases of cardiac muscle tissue. During the repolarization phase, the nurse will stress that membranes must be repolarized before they can be re-excited. Within the cell, the nurse understands that:

• A. Potassium channels open while sodium channels close, causing repolarization to the resting state.
• B. The influx of calcium is the primary stimulus for the repolarization of cardiac tissue.
• C. Only the electrical activity within the heart will determine when repolarization occurs.
• D. The cell membranes need to stay calm, resulting in muscle tissue becoming refractory.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During the repolarization phase of cardiac muscle tissue, potassium channels open while sodium channels close. This process is crucial for the cardiac muscle to return to its resting state after depolarization. Potassium moving out of the cell and sodium staying out helps reset the membrane potential and prepare the cell for the next depolarization phase. The influx of calcium is not the primary stimulus for repolarization in cardiac tissue; it is mainly involved in the depolarization phase. While electrical activity within the heart influences repolarization, the specific ion movements described in choice A are what physiologically drive repolarization. Cell membranes need to be in an active state during repolarization, not calm, to facilitate the necessary ion movements for muscle tissue to properly function.

2. An oncology nurse is providing care for an adult patient who is currently immunocompromised. The nurse is aware of the physiology involved in hematopoiesis and immune function, including the salient role of cytokines. What is the primary role of cytokines in maintaining homeostasis?

• A. Cytokines perform phagocytosis in response to bacterial and protozoal infections.
• B. Cytokines perform a regulatory role in the development of diverse blood cells.
• C. Cytokines play a significant role in the formation of all blood cells.
• D. Cytokines are produced in response to the presence of antibodies.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary role of cytokines in maintaining homeostasis is to perform a regulatory function in the development of diverse blood cells. Cytokines act as signaling molecules that regulate the immune response and hematopoiesis. Choice A is incorrect because cytokines do not perform phagocytosis; they regulate immune responses. Choice C is incorrect because while cytokines are involved in the formation of some blood cells, they are not considered the basic 'building blocks' of all blood cells. Choice D is incorrect because cytokines are not formed in response to antibodies, but rather play a role in the immune response to various stimuli.

3. After studying about fungi, which information indicates a correct understanding of fungi? Fungi causing deep or systemic infections:

• A. Are easily treated with penicillin
• B. Are extremely rare
• C. Never occur with other infections
• D. Are commonly opportunistic

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Are commonly opportunistic.' Fungi causing deep or systemic infections are commonly opportunistic, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems. Choice A is incorrect because fungi infections are not easily treated with penicillin. Choice B is incorrect as deep or systemic fungal infections are not extremely rare. Choice C is incorrect as fungal infections can co-occur with other infections.

4. A patient is prescribed medroxyprogesterone acetate (Provera) for the treatment of endometriosis. What key instruction should the nurse provide regarding the administration of this medication?

• A. Take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent hormone levels.
• B. Discontinue the medication if side effects occur.
• C. Take the medication with food to prevent gastrointestinal upset.
• D. Apply the medication once a week.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for medroxyprogesterone acetate (Provera) is to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent hormone levels and ensure its effectiveness. Choice B is incorrect because discontinuing the medication abruptly without consulting healthcare providers can be harmful. Choice C is incorrect as taking the medication with food is not necessary for this specific drug. Choice D is incorrect as medroxyprogesterone is typically taken orally, not applied topically.

5. A patient with a history of venous thromboembolism is prescribed hormone replacement therapy (HRT). What should the nurse emphasize about the risks associated with this therapy?

• A. HRT is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism, so patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of blood clots.
• B. HRT may improve mood and energy levels, but it also increases the risk of osteoporosis.
• C. HRT can decrease the risk of fractures, but it also increases the risk of developing diabetes.
• D. HRT may increase the risk of breast cancer, so regular mammograms are essential.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: HRT is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism, so patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of blood clots and advised to seek immediate medical attention if they occur.

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