Nursing Elites

1. When assessing a client for an endocrine dysfunction, which question should the nurse ask?

• A. “Have you noticed any pain in your legs when walking?”
• B. “Have you had any unexplained weight loss?”
• C. “Have you noticed any change in your bowel movements?”
• D. “Have you experienced any joint pain or discomfort?”

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: “Have you had any unexplained weight loss?” Unexplained weight loss can be a common symptom of various endocrine disorders, such as hyperthyroidism and diabetes. This weight loss is often despite an adequate or increased appetite. Choices A, C, and D are less likely to be directly associated with endocrine dysfunction. Pain in the legs when walking could be related to musculoskeletal issues, changes in bowel movements may suggest gastrointestinal concerns, and joint pain is more commonly linked to rheumatologic conditions rather than primary endocrine disorders.

2. A client is admitted to the hospital with the diagnosis of a right-sided brain attack (CVA). The client is right-handed. Which task will be most difficult for this client?

• A. Eating meals
• B. Writing letters
• C. Combing the hair
• D. Dressing every morning

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Writing letters. Writing requires fine motor skills, which are often impaired in a right-handed person with a right-sided CVA. Eating meals (choice A) involves gross motor skills and can be adapted for easier handling. Combing the hair (choice C) and dressing every morning (choice D) also require fine motor skills, but they are generally less complex and demanding than writing letters.

3. For a patient on lithium therapy, which dietary recommendation is essential?

• A. Increase caffeine intake
• B. Increase sodium intake
• C. Increase protein intake
• D. Increase fiber intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to increase sodium intake. For patients on lithium therapy, maintaining consistent sodium intake is crucial to avoid fluctuations in drug levels. Increasing caffeine intake (choice A) is not recommended as it can interfere with lithium levels. While protein intake (choice C) is important for overall health, it is not specifically essential for patients on lithium therapy. Similarly, increasing fiber intake (choice D) is beneficial but not a primary concern for patients on lithium therapy.

4. The nurse is caring for a client in a sickle cell crisis. Which is the pain regimen of choice to relieve the pain?

• A. Frequent aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and a non-narcotic analgesic
• B. Motrin (ibuprofen), an NSAID, PRN
• C. Demerol (meperidine), a narcotic analgesic, every four (4) hours
• D. Morphine, a narcotic analgesic, every two (2) to three (3) hours PRN

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a sickle cell crisis, morphine is the preferred analgesic due to its potency and effectiveness in managing severe pain. Choice A is incorrect because aspirin is contraindicated in sickle cell disease due to its potential to cause a further decrease in blood flow. Choice B, Motrin (ibuprofen), is also not the ideal choice as NSAIDs can exacerbate renal complications in sickle cell patients. Choice C, Demerol (meperidine), is not recommended for sickle cell pain management due to its toxic metabolite accumulation which can cause seizures and other complications.

5. Which of the following is a common side effect of the drug metformin?

• A. Weight loss
• B. Weight gain
• C. Drowsiness
• D. Hypertension

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, weight loss. Metformin is commonly associated with weight loss as a side effect rather than weight gain. Metformin works by decreasing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity, which can lead to weight loss. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because weight gain, drowsiness, and hypertension are not typically common side effects of metformin.

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