Nursing Elites

1. You are caring for a group of elderly clients, many of whom are affected by multiple chronic disorders and are also, at times, affected by some acute disorders that require medical and nursing attention. As you are caring for these clients, some will need a new medication regimen for an acute disorder. You should consider the fact that the elderly population is at risk for more side effects, adverse drug reactions, and toxicity due to the elderly having a(n):

• A. Increased creatinine clearance.
• B. Impaired immune system.
• C. Decreased hepatic metabolism.
• D. Increased bodily fat

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Decreased hepatic metabolism.' The elderly population is at risk for more side effects, adverse drug reactions, and toxicity due to a decrease in hepatic metabolism. This is caused by changes in hepatic functioning in the elderly, including decreased hepatic blood flow and functioning. Choice A, 'Increased creatinine clearance,' is incorrect as aging typically results in decreased, not increased, creatinine clearance. Choice B, 'Impaired immune system,' is not directly related to the increased risk of adverse drug reactions in the elderly. Choice D, 'Increased bodily fat,' is not a primary factor contributing to the increased risk of medication-related issues in the elderly population.

2. A family member is complaining that the lights are too dim in the middle of the night when she comes in to visit her husband. What is the most objective response?

• A. Patients sleep better with the lights dimmed.
• B. The nightshift nurses prefer to work with less light.
• C. It's time for him to sleep, and you should, too.
• D. There's a reason we do that. Let me share a research study with you.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most objective response in this situation is to explain to the family member that there is a specific reason for dimming the lights and offer to share a research study to provide evidence-based information. By doing so, it helps the family member understand that the care provided is based on established practices and research, potentially alleviating her concerns and ensuring that her husband receives appropriate care. Choices A, B, and C do not address the family member's concern or provide a rationale backed by evidence, making them less suitable responses in this context.

3. A patient with Addison's disease asks a nurse for nutrition and diet advice. Which of the following diet modifications is not recommended?

• A. A diet high in grains
• B. A diet with adequate caloric intake
• C. A high protein diet
• D. A restricted sodium diet

Correct answer: D

Rationale: For a patient with Addison's disease, a restricted sodium diet is not recommended. These patients require normal dietary sodium to prevent excess fluid loss. Patients with primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison disease) should have ample access to salt because of the salt wasting that occurs if their condition is untreated. Therefore, a diet high in grains, a diet with adequate caloric intake, and a high protein diet are all recommended for patients with Addison's disease to support their nutritional needs and overall health. However, restricting sodium can be detrimental for these patients due to the nature of their condition.

4. The nurse is performing discharge teaching for Mrs. S after cardiac angioplasty. Her husband is present for the teaching. While explaining the prescription for antiplatelet medication to use at home, Mrs. S's husband states, 'I don't think I can afford to refill that medication.' What is the most appropriate response of the nurse?

• A. Don't worry, your insurance will cover it.
• B. I'll ask the physician if he can prescribe a medication that is more affordable.
• C. You should apply for Medicare to see if they can help you.
• D. This medication is essential for her care and should be given priority over all others that she is taking.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate response for the nurse in this situation is to offer assistance in exploring more affordable medication options. It is important to address the patient's concerns about medication costs to ensure adherence to the treatment plan. By suggesting to ask the physician if a more affordable alternative is available, the nurse shows understanding and a commitment to helping the patient access necessary medications. Choice A is incorrect because assuming insurance coverage without verifying can lead to false expectations. Choice C is incorrect as Medicare eligibility and assistance may not be applicable in this scenario. Choice D is incorrect as it does not address the financial concern raised by the husband and emphasizes the importance of the medication without offering a practical solution to affordability.

5. Mrs. G is seen for follow-up after testing for chronically high blood glucose levels. Her physician diagnoses her with type 1 diabetes. Which of the following information is part of this client's education about this condition?

• A. Type 1 diabetes occurs due to increased carbohydrate intake and lack of exercise
• B. Type 1 diabetes is managed through diet and exercise
• C. Type 1 diabetes is caused by destruction of beta cells in the pancreas
• D. Type 1 diabetes leads to the body's cells rejecting insulin

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks and destroys the beta cells in the pancreas, leading to a lack of insulin production. Insulin is essential for regulating blood glucose levels and enabling cells to use glucose for energy. Understanding that type 1 diabetes results from the destruction of beta cells helps patients comprehend the need for insulin replacement therapy. Choices A and B are incorrect as type 1 diabetes is not primarily caused by diet or exercise habits. Choice D is incorrect because type 1 diabetes is not about the body's cells rejecting insulin but rather the lack of insulin production due to beta cell destruction.

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