Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following actions would be of highest priority with regards to the external shunt?

• A. Avoid taking blood pressure or blood sample from the arm with the shunt
• B. Instruct the patient not to exercise the arm with the shunt
• C. Heparinize the shunt daily
• D. Change the dressing of the shunt daily

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Heparinizing the shunt daily (choice C) is the highest priority action as it prevents the formation of blood clots that can occlude the shunt, leading to potential complications such as thrombosis. Avoiding taking blood pressure or blood samples from the arm with the shunt (choice A) is also important, but secondary to heparinizing the shunt. Similarly, instructing the patient not to exercise the arm with the shunt (choice B) can help prevent unnecessary strain on the shunt, but it is not as critical as preventing clot formation. Changing the dressing of the shunt daily (choice D) is a standard nursing care practice to prevent infection, but again, it is not as critical as ensuring the shunt remains patent through daily heparinization.

2. Which mineral-containing amino acids help to form the shape of proteins?

• A. phosphorus
• B. sulfur
• C. selenium
• D. iron

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: sulfur. Sulfur-containing amino acids like cysteine and methionine play a crucial role in forming disulfide bonds within proteins. These bonds are essential for the proper folding and structural stability of proteins. Phosphorus (choice A), selenium (choice C), and iron (choice D) do not directly contribute to shaping proteins through bond formation.

3. Which change during pregnancy is related to the slowing of the gastrointestinal tract?

• A. Diarrhea
• B. Constipation
• C. Decreased absorption of iron
• D. Decreased absorption of calcium

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During pregnancy, the gastrointestinal tract tends to slow down, leading to constipation. This is due to hormonal changes that relax the intestinal muscles, allowing more time for nutrient absorption and ultimately leading to constipation. Diarrhea is not typically associated with the slowing of the gastrointestinal tract during pregnancy. Decreased absorption of iron and calcium may occur during pregnancy due to increased demands, but they are not directly related to the slowing of the gastrointestinal tract.

4. During early tooth development, vitamin A deficiency leads to enamel hypoplasia and defective dentin formation. Because of its effect on soft tissues and bone, vitamin A contributes to normal spacing of teeth.

• A. Both statements are true.
• B. Both statements are false.
• C. The first statement is true; the second is false.
• D. The first statement is false; the second is true.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Both statements are true. The effect of vitamin A on the growth of soft tissues and bones naturally extends to the teeth and surrounding structures. Enamel hypoplasia, involving defective enamel matrix and incomplete calcification of enamel and dentin, can be due to vitamin A deficiency. The effect of this vitamin upon surrounding bone directly affects spacing patterns of the teeth within the bone and dentition. Choice A is correct because both statements accurately describe the influence of vitamin A on tooth development. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not reflect the accuracy of the statements provided.

5. Which is NOT a characteristic or function of lipids?

• A. Involved in energy metabolism and storage
• B. Provide insulation and protection
• C. Act as hormones that regulate the body
• D. Are hydrophilic

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Lipids are known for several functions including involvement in energy metabolism and storage (Choice A), providing insulation and protection (Choice B), and acting as hormones that regulate the body (Choice C). However, lipids are not hydrophilic (water-attracting), contrary to choice D. They are actually hydrophobic, meaning they repel water and do not mix well with it. This is a key property that differentiates them from many other biological molecules.

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