Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor in a client with Cushing's syndrome?

• A. Blood glucose levels
• B. Serum calcium levels
• C. Serum potassium levels
• D. Serum sodium levels

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Blood glucose levels. In Cushing's syndrome, there is excess cortisol in the body which leads to increased blood glucose levels due to its effect on glucose metabolism. Elevated blood glucose levels are a common finding in individuals with Cushing's syndrome. Monitoring blood glucose levels is crucial as it helps in assessing and managing hyperglycemia in these patients. Choice B, serum calcium levels, is not typically a priority in monitoring for Cushing's syndrome. While abnormalities in calcium levels can occur in some endocrine disorders, hypercalcemia is not a hallmark of Cushing's syndrome. Choice C, serum potassium levels, and Choice D, serum sodium levels, are not directly associated with Cushing's syndrome. While electrolyte imbalances can occur in various conditions, they are not specifically linked to Cushing's syndrome as blood glucose levels are.

2. The nurse is caring for a client with DM who is experiencing ketoacidosis. The nurse should prioritize which action?

• A. Administering insulin intravenously.
• B. Giving the client sips of water.
• C. Monitoring the client's urine output.
• D. Applying a heating pad to the client's abdomen.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering insulin intravenously is the priority action for managing diabetic ketoacidosis. Insulin helps lower blood glucose levels and halts the production of ketones, addressing the underlying cause of ketoacidosis. Giving sips of water (Choice B) may be necessary for hydration, but it does not address the immediate life-threatening issue of ketoacidosis. Monitoring urine output (Choice C) is important for assessing renal function but is not the priority over administering insulin. Applying a heating pad (Choice D) is not indicated and can potentially worsen the condition in ketoacidosis.

3. A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus is prescribed metformin. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following potential side effects?

• A. Lactic acidosis
• B. Hypokalemia
• C. Hyperglycemia
• D. Weight gain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, lactic acidosis. Metformin, a common medication for type 2 diabetes mellitus, can lead to lactic acidosis, particularly in individuals with renal impairment or predisposing factors. Monitoring for signs of lactic acidosis, such as muscle pain, weakness, trouble breathing, dizziness, and slow or uneven heart rate, is crucial to prevent serious complications. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as metformin does not typically cause hypokalemia, hyperglycemia, or weight gain as its primary side effects.

4. Which of the following best describes the nurse's role in maintaining patient dignity?

• A. The nurse ensures that the patient is treated with respect and that their personal beliefs and values are considered in their care.
• B. The nurse maintains the patient's dignity by ensuring privacy during personal care activities.
• C. The nurse ensures that the patient's personal information is kept private and only shared with those directly involved in their care.
• D. The nurse ensures that the patient is involved in decisions about their care and that their preferences are respected.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The nurse's role in maintaining patient dignity goes beyond just privacy during personal care activities. It involves treating the patient with respect, considering their personal beliefs and values in their care. While privacy is important for dignity, respecting personal beliefs and values is equally crucial. Choice B focuses solely on privacy, overlooking the broader aspects of dignity maintenance. Choices C and D, although important in patient care, do not fully capture the comprehensive approach needed for maintaining patient dignity as described in choice A.

5. Which of the following describes the role of the nurse in advocating for a patient?

• A. The nurse ensures that the patient has all the information needed to make an informed decision about their care.
• B. The nurse advocates for the patient by communicating their needs and preferences to the healthcare team.
• C. The nurse advocates for the patient by ensuring that they receive the care they need and by protecting their rights.
• D. The nurse advocates for the patient by helping them navigate the healthcare system and access necessary resources.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Nurses advocate for patients by ensuring that they receive the necessary care and by protecting their rights. This involves speaking up for patients, ensuring they are treated with respect, and helping them access appropriate healthcare services. Option A, providing information for informed decision-making, is an important aspect of nursing care but not the central role of advocacy. Option B, communicating patients' needs to the healthcare team, is essential but more focused on teamwork and collaboration. Option D, helping patients navigate the healthcare system and access resources, is valuable but not the primary definition of advocacy in nursing.

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