A client is receiving levothyroxine for hypothyroidism. Which of the following findings would indicate that the medication is effective?
- A. Decreased heart rate
- B. Increased weight
- C. Increased energy levels
- D. Decreased appetite
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Increased energy levels. When a client with hypothyroidism is receiving levothyroxine, increased energy levels indicate that thyroid hormone levels are being normalized, which is a positive response to treatment. This improvement reflects the effectiveness of the medication in addressing the underlying hypothyroidism. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Decreased heart rate and decreased appetite may be symptoms of hypothyroidism and would not necessarily indicate the effectiveness of levothyroxine. Increased weight could also be a symptom of hypothyroidism and does not directly reflect the medication's effectiveness.
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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.
A client with hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine. The nurse should teach the client to take this medication:
- A. With meals
- B. Before bedtime
- C. On an empty stomach in the morning
- D. With a glass of milk
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach in the morning to enhance absorption and efficacy. Taking it with meals (Choice A) may interfere with absorption due to food interactions. Taking it before bedtime (Choice B) can lead to difficulties with absorption and may disrupt the sleep cycle. Consuming levothyroxine with a glass of milk (Choice D) is not recommended as calcium in milk can interfere with its absorption. Therefore, the best practice is to take levothyroxine on an empty stomach in the morning to ensure optimal effectiveness.
A nurse manager is reviewing the nurse's documentation on the unit. Which of the following best describes the importance of this review?
- A. The nurse manager's review of documentation is crucial to ensure that it meets legal and ethical standards and accurately reflects the care provided to patients.
- B. The nurse manager's review of documentation is important to ensure that it is thorough, accurate, and reflects the nurse's accountability for patient care.
- C. The nurse manager's review of documentation is necessary to ensure that it is consistent with the unit's policies and procedures and that it accurately reflects the care provided.
- D. The nurse manager's review of documentation is essential to ensure that it meets regulatory requirements and that it supports the delivery of safe and effective patient care.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The nurse manager's review of documentation is a critical aspect of maintaining quality patient care. Choice D is the correct answer as it highlights the importance of ensuring that documentation meets regulatory requirements, supporting the delivery of safe and effective patient care. Regulatory requirements are established to ensure that healthcare facilities function within established guidelines and standards, promoting patient safety and quality of care. Choices A, B, and C, although important aspects of documentation review, do not fully encapsulate the significant role of regulatory compliance in ensuring the overall quality and safety of patient care.
Which of the following statements should be included in the teaching to a client about a do-not-resuscitate order (DNR)?
- A. When a heart ceases to beat, the client is pronounced clinically dead.
- B. Physicians are required to write DNR orders.
- C. A DNR order can be written after discussion with the client and family.
- D. A court decision is needed for a DNR.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct statement to include in teaching a client about a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order is that it can be written after discussion with the client and family. This involves ensuring that the client and their family understand the implications and make an informed decision. Choice A is incorrect as pronouncing clinical death is not directly related to discussing a DNR order. Choice B is incorrect as while physicians typically write DNR orders, it is not a strict requirement. Choice D is incorrect as a court decision is not typically required for a DNR order; it is a decision made by the client with input from healthcare providers and family members.
A client with DM is preparing for a foot care exam. The nurse should advise the client to:
- A. Wear loose-fitting shoes to protect the feet.
- B. Apply lotion to the tops and bottoms of the feet to keep the skin moist.
- C. Avoid using a heating pad to prevent burns on the feet.
- D. Avoid using sharp instruments to trim the toenails.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is to advise the client to avoid using sharp instruments to trim the toenails. This is crucial because using sharp instruments can lead to injuries such as cuts or wounds, increasing the risk of infections, especially in clients with diabetes who have decreased sensation in their feet. Choice A is incorrect because tight shoes can restrict circulation and increase the risk of pressure sores. Choice B is incorrect because applying lotion between the toes can create a moist environment, leading to fungal infections. Choice C is incorrect because using a heating pad can lead to burns, which can go unnoticed due to decreased sensation in diabetic feet.