A client who is to receive general anesthesia has a serum potassium level of 5.8 mEq/L. What should be the nurse's first response?
- A. Call the surgeon.
- B. Send the client to surgery.
- C. Make a note on the front of the chart.
- D. Notify the anesthesiologist.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A potassium level of 5.8 mEq/L indicates hyperkalemia, which can cause cardiac complications under general anesthesia. Notifying the anesthesiologist first ensures prompt evaluation and management to ensure patient safety.
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A 34-year-old female is diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The nurse should assess the client for which of the following? Select all that apply.
- A. Rapid pulse.
- B. Decreased energy and fatigue.
- C. Weight gain of 10 lb.
- D. Fine, thin hair with hair loss.
- E. Constipation.
- F. Monorrhagia.
Correct Answer: B,C,D,E,F
Rationale: Hypothyroidism slows metabolism, leading to decreased energy, fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, constipation, and heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia). Rapid pulse is associated with hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism.
If the client realizes the importance of quitting smoking, and the nurse develops a plan to help the client achieve this goal. Which of the following nursing interventions should be the initial step in this plan?
- A. Review the negative effects of smoking on the body.
- B. Discuss the effects of passive smoking on environmental pollution.
- C. Establish the client's daily smoking pattern.
- D. Explain how smoking worsens high blood pressure.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Establishing the daily smoking pattern identifies triggers and habits, forming the basis for a tailored cessation plan.
A client with acute renal failure has metabolic acidosis. The nurse expects:
- A. Sodium bicarbonate administration.
- B. Increased potassium intake.
- C. Fluid bolus.
- D. High-protein diet.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Sodium bicarbonate corrects metabolic acidosis in acute renal failure.
Lifestyle influences that are considered risk factors for colorectal cancer include:
- A. A diet low in vitamin C.
- B. A high dietary intake of artificial sweeteners (Aspartame).
- C. A high-fat, low-fiber diet.
- D. Multiple sex partners.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A high-fat, low-fiber diet is a well-established risk factor for colorectal cancer, as it slows digestion and increases exposure to potential carcinogens in the colon.
The nurse is preparing a community presentation on oral cancer. Which of the following is a primary risk factor for oral cancer that the nurse should include in the presentation?
- A. Use of alcohol.
- B. Frequent use of mouthwash.
- C. Lack of vitamin B12.
- D. Lack of regular teeth cleaning by a dentist.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Alcohol use is a well-established primary risk factor for oral cancer, often acting synergistically with tobacco use. Frequent mouthwash use, vitamin B12 deficiency, and lack of dental cleanings are not primary risk factors for oral cancer.
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