Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is an expected finding in a patient with hypothyroidism?

• A. Weight gain.
• B. Weight loss.
• C. Increased appetite.
• D. Diarrhea.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Weight gain is an expected finding in hypothyroidism due to the decreased metabolic rate. Hypothyroidism leads to a slowing down of bodily functions, including metabolism, which can result in weight gain. Weight loss (Choice B) is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism where there is an increase in metabolic rate. Increased appetite (Choice C) is also more typical of hyperthyroidism as the body is burning energy at a faster rate. Diarrhea (Choice D) is not a typical symptom of hypothyroidism; instead, constipation is more often observed due to the slowing down of the digestive system.

2. Why is the combination drug trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) necessary?

• A. To broaden the antibacterial spectrum.
• B. To decrease bacterial resistance.
• C. To improve the taste.
• D. To minimize toxic effects.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To decrease bacterial resistance. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) is a combination drug used to prevent bacterial resistance to sulfonamides. It works by targeting different steps in the bacterial metabolic pathway, making it harder for bacteria to develop resistance. Choice A is incorrect because the combination does not broaden the antibacterial spectrum; instead, it enhances effectiveness against specific bacteria. Choice C is incorrect as taste improvement is not the primary reason for combining these drugs. Choice D is incorrect because while combination therapy can sometimes help minimize toxic effects, the primary purpose in this case is to address bacterial resistance.

3. Which of the following lipid abnormalities is a risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis and peripheral vascular disease?

• A. Low concentration of triglycerides.
• B. High levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.
• C. High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
• D. Low levels of LDL cholesterol.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and peripheral vascular disease by being deposited in the blood vessel walls, leading to the formation of plaques that can obstruct blood flow. Choice A is incorrect as a low concentration of triglycerides is not typically associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis or PVD. Choice B is incorrect as high levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol are actually considered protective against atherosclerosis as it helps remove cholesterol from arteries. Choice D is incorrect as low levels of LDL cholesterol are not typically considered a risk factor for atherosclerosis or PVD.

4. Oxygen via nasal cannula has been prescribed for a client with emphysema. The nurse checks the physician’s orders to ensure that the prescribed flow is not greater than:

• A. 1 L/min
• B. 3 L/min
• C. 4 L/min
• D. 6 L/min

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 3 L/min. Clients with emphysema typically receive oxygen at a flow rate of 1 to 2 L/min, with a maximum of 3 L/min. Higher flow rates can lead to oxygen toxicity in these clients, so it's crucial to adhere to the prescribed limits. Choice A (1 L/min) is too low and may not provide adequate oxygenation for the client. Choices C (4 L/min) and D (6 L/min) exceed the recommended flow rates for clients with emphysema and can increase the risk of oxygen toxicity.

5. A client tells the clinic nurse about experiencing burning on urination, and assessment reveals that the client had sexual intercourse four days ago with a person who was casually met. Which action should the nurse implement?

• A. Observe the perineal area for a chancroid-like lesion
• B. Obtain a specimen of urethral drainage for culture
• C. Assess for perineal itching, erythema, and excoriation
• D. Identify all sexual partners in the last four days

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Obtaining a urethral drainage specimen for culture is crucial in diagnosing a potential sexually transmitted infection (STI) in this client. While assessing for perineal symptoms like itching, erythema, and excoriation (Choice C) may provide additional information, obtaining a culture is more definitive. Observing for a chancroid-like lesion (Choice A) is not as pertinent as obtaining a culture for a broader diagnostic approach. Identifying all sexual partners in the last four days (Choice D) is important for contact tracing but obtaining a specimen for culture takes priority in this scenario.

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