which assessment finding of a postmenopausal woman necessitates a referral by the nurse to the healthcare provider for evaluation of thyroid functioni
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HESI RN

HESI 799 RN Exit Exam

1. Which assessment finding of a postmenopausal woman necessitates a referral by the nurse to the healthcare provider for evaluation of thyroid functioning?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cold sensitivity. Cold sensitivity is a common symptom of hypothyroidism, a condition that affects the thyroid gland's ability to produce enough hormones. As a postmenopausal woman presents with cold sensitivity, it may indicate an underlying thyroid issue. Hot flashes (choice B) are more commonly associated with menopause than thyroid dysfunction. While weight gain (choice C) and dry skin (choice D) can also be symptoms of thyroid disorders, cold sensitivity is more specific and indicative of hypothyroidism, requiring prompt evaluation by a healthcare provider.

2. A client with hypertension is prescribed a calcium channel blocker. Which client statement indicates that further teaching is needed?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The statement ‘I should reduce my fluid intake to control my blood pressure’ indicates a misunderstanding. It is important to note that fluid restriction is not typically necessary when taking calcium channel blockers. Choices A, B, and C demonstrate good understanding of medication adherence, dietary precautions, and nutrition recommendations when taking a calcium channel blocker, making them incorrect choices for further teaching.

3. A nurse plans to call the healthcare provider to report an 0600 serum potassium level of 2 mEq/L or mmol/L (SI), but the charge nurse tells the nurse that the healthcare provider does not like to receive early morning calls and will make rounds later in the morning. What action should the nurse take?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A nurse should contact the healthcare provider immediately to report a critically low potassium level of 2 mEq/L. Potassium levels below the normal range can lead to life-threatening complications such as cardiac arrhythmias. Prompt notification is essential to ensure timely intervention and prevent harm to the patient. Option B is incorrect as delaying reporting such a critical value can jeopardize patient safety. Option C is not the priority in this situation; the focus should be on patient care. Option D is dangerous and inappropriate as administering a potassium supplement without healthcare provider's guidance can be harmful, especially with a critically low level.

4. A client with a history of chronic heart failure is admitted with shortness of breath and crackles in the lungs. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering oxygen therapy is the priority intervention for a client with chronic heart failure presenting with shortness of breath and crackles in the lungs. Oxygen therapy helps improve oxygenation, which is crucial in managing respiratory distress. Loop diuretics (Choice B) may be indicated to manage fluid overload in heart failure but are not the immediate priority in this case. Administering morphine (Choice C) is not the first-line intervention for shortness of breath in heart failure and should be considered after addressing oxygenation and underlying causes. Obtaining an arterial blood gas sample (Choice D) can provide valuable information but is not the initial action needed to address the client's acute respiratory distress.

5. A client with a history of rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed prednisone. Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Weight gain of 2 pounds in 24 hours is concerning in a client with rheumatoid arthritis on prednisone as it may indicate fluid retention or worsening heart failure. Increased joint pain, blood glucose level of 150 mg/dl, and fever of 100.4°F are important assessments but do not require immediate intervention compared to the potential severity of rapid weight gain.

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