Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following definitions best describes diverticulosis?

• A. An inflamed outpouching of the intestine
• B. A noninflamed outpouching of the intestine
• C. The partial impairment of the forward flow of intestinal contents
• D. An abnormal protrusion of an organ through the structure that usually holds it

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'A noninflamed outpouching of the intestine.' Diverticulosis refers to the presence of small, bulging pouches (diverticula) that can form in the lining of the digestive system, especially the colon. These pouches are typically noninflamed. Choice A is incorrect because it describes diverticulitis, which is the inflammation of these pouches. Choice C is incorrect as it defines bowel obstruction, not diverticulosis. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to a hernia, not diverticulosis.

2. A client with liver dysfunction has low serum levels of thrombin. The nurse provides care, anticipating that this client is most at risk of

• A. Dehydration
• B. Malnutrition
• C. Bleeding
• D. Infection

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Thrombin is produced by the liver and is necessary for normal clotting. When a client with liver dysfunction has low serum levels of thrombin, they are at risk of bleeding due to impaired clotting mechanisms. Dehydration (choice A) is not directly related to low thrombin levels. Malnutrition (choice B) may impact overall health but is not the most immediate concern associated with low thrombin levels. Infection (choice D) is not directly related to the clotting function affected by low thrombin levels.

3. The nurse is caring for a client with a diagnosis of cirrhosis and is monitoring the client for signs of portal hypertension. Which initial sign, if noted in the client, indicates the presence of portal hypertension?

• A. Flat neck veins
• B. Hypotension
• C. Weak pulse
• D. Crackles on auscultation of the lungs

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Clinical signs and symptoms or portal hypertension are identical to those of heart failure and include jugular vein distention, lung crackles, and decreased perfusion to all organs. Initially, the client may have hypertension, flushed skin, and a bounding pulse.

4. You promote hemodynamic stability in a patient with upper GI bleeding by:

• A. Encouraging oral fluid intake.
• B. Monitoring central venous pressure.
• C. Monitoring laboratory test results and vital signs.
• D. Giving blood, electrolyte and fluid replacement.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Promoting hemodynamic stability in a patient with upper GI bleeding involves giving blood, electrolyte, and fluid replacement.

5. Lactulose (Chronulac) is prescribed for a client with a diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy. The nurse would determine that this medication has had a therapeutic effect if which of the following is noted?

• A. Increased red blood cell count
• B. Decreased serum ammonia level
• C. Increased protein level
• D. Decreased white blood cell level

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Lactulose is prescribed for the client with hepatic encephalopathy to reduce bacterial breakdown of protein in the bowel. The medication creates an acidic environment in the bowel and causes the ammonia to leave the bloodstream and enter the colon. Ammonia then becomes trapped in the bowel. Lactulose also has a laxative effect that allows for the elimination of the ammonia.

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