Nursing Elites

1. When reviewing the purpose/action of neurotransmitters as they interact with different receptors, the nursing instructor gives an example using acetylcholine. When acetylcholine is released at the sinoatrial node in the right atrium of the heart, it is:

• A. positively charged.
• B. inhibitory.
• C. overstimulated.
• D. dormant.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Acetylcholine acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter at the sinoatrial node. It slows down the heart rate by decreasing the firing rate of the sinoatrial node, which serves as the heart's natural pacemaker. Neurotransmitters do not have a charge, so choice A is incorrect. Choice C is wrong as overstimulation is not a characteristic of acetylcholine at the sinoatrial node. Choice D is also incorrect because acetylcholine actively influences heart rate regulation when released at the sinoatrial node.

2. An imbalance of which of the following hormones could lead to increased calcium levels in the blood?

• A. Parathyroid hormone
• B. Antidiuretic hormone
• C. Calcitonin
• D. Melatonin

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is Parathyroid hormone (Choice A). Parathyroid hormone plays a key role in regulating calcium levels in the blood. When there is an imbalance in parathyroid hormone secretion, it can lead to increased calcium levels in the blood. Antidiuretic hormone (Choice B) is involved in regulating water balance, not calcium levels. Calcitonin (Choice C) helps lower blood calcium levels and is unlikely to cause an increase. Melatonin (Choice D) regulates sleep-wake cycles and does not have a direct effect on calcium levels in the blood.

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

• A. Take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent hormone levels.
• B. Medroxyprogesterone should be taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset.
• C. Medroxyprogesterone should be discontinued if side effects occur.
• D. Medroxyprogesterone should be taken once a week to maintain effectiveness.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction the nurse should provide regarding the use of medroxyprogesterone acetate (Provera) for endometriosis is to take the medication at the same time each day. This helps to maintain consistent hormone levels and ensures the effectiveness of the treatment. Choice B is incorrect because medroxyprogesterone should be taken without regard to meals. Choice C is incorrect because side effects should be reported to the healthcare provider for evaluation rather than discontinuing the medication without medical advice. Choice D is incorrect as medroxyprogesterone is usually taken daily, not weekly, for the treatment of endometriosis.

4. An influenza outbreak has spread through a long-term care residence, affecting many of the residents with severe malaise, fever, and nausea and vomiting. In an effort to curb the outbreak, the nurse has liaised with a physician to see if residents may be candidates for treatment with what drug?

• A. Saquinavir mesylate
• B. Oseltamivir phosphate
• C. Lamivudine
• D. Ribavirin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Oseltamivir phosphate. Oseltamivir is an antiviral medication used to treat influenza infections. It works by inhibiting the neuraminidase enzyme of the influenza virus, reducing the spread of the virus in the body. Saquinavir mesylate (choice A) is used in the treatment of HIV, not influenza. Lamivudine (choice C) is also an antiviral medication primarily used in the treatment of HIV and hepatitis B, not influenza. Ribavirin (choice D) is used to treat certain viral infections like hepatitis C, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and some viral hemorrhagic fevers, but it is not a first-line treatment for influenza.

5. A woman is complaining that she feels like the room is spinning even though she is not moving. Which of the following is characteristic of benign positional vertigo?

• A. It usually occurs with a headache.
• B. Pupillary changes are common.
• C. It is usually triggered when the patient bends forward.
• D. Nystagmus continues even when the eyes fixate on an object.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'It is usually triggered when the patient bends forward.' Benign positional vertigo is often triggered by changes in head position, such as bending forward. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. A is incorrect because benign positional vertigo is not typically associated with headaches. B is incorrect because pupillary changes are not a common feature of benign positional vertigo. D is incorrect because nystagmus in benign positional vertigo usually stops when the eyes fixate on an object.

Similar Questions