A client with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine (Synthroid). What is the most important instruction the nurse should provide?
- A. Take the medication in the morning on an empty stomach
- B. Take the medication with food
- C. Report any symptoms of hyperthyroidism
- D. Do not discontinue the medication abruptly
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Report any symptoms of hyperthyroidism.' Symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as palpitations or tremors, may indicate an excessive dose of levothyroxine and should be reported to the healthcare provider for proper adjustment of the medication. Choice A is incorrect because levothyroxine is usually taken in the morning on an empty stomach to maximize absorption. Choice B is incorrect because taking levothyroxine with food can interfere with its absorption. Choice D is incorrect because discontinuing levothyroxine abruptly can lead to a worsening of hypothyroidism symptoms.
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A client with hemorrhoids asks for information about a high fiber diet. Which breakfast menu items should the nurse suggest? (Select all that apply.)
- A. Raisin bran muffins
- B. Bowl of oatmeal
- C. Cup of raspberries
- D. Scrambled eggs
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A high-fiber diet is beneficial for managing hemorrhoids as it helps maintain bowel regularity. Raisin bran muffins are a good choice for breakfast as they are high in fiber. Oatmeal is also a high-fiber option that aids digestion and prevents constipation. Raspberries are rich in fiber and contribute to a high-fiber diet. Scrambled eggs, on the other hand, are not high in fiber and do not provide the necessary fiber content needed for managing hemorrhoids.
A client with a history of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is being discharged with a prescription for epoetin alfa (Epogen). What should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
- A. Take this medication on an empty stomach.
- B. Monitor your blood pressure regularly.
- C. Expect to feel better immediately.
- D. Avoid foods high in potassium.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Monitor your blood pressure regularly.' Epoetin alfa (Epogen) can lead to hypertension as a side effect, so it is essential for clients with CKD to monitor their blood pressure regularly. Choice A is incorrect because epoetin alfa does not need to be taken on an empty stomach. Choice C is incorrect because the client should not expect immediate improvement upon starting the medication. Choice D is incorrect because while monitoring potassium intake is important in CKD, the question specifically pertains to epoetin alfa and its side effects, not potassium intake.
The nurse is caring for a client postoperatively following a hip replacement. Which intervention is most important to prevent dislocation of the prosthesis?
- A. Keep the client in a low Fowler's position
- B. Maintain hip abduction with pillows
- C. Encourage early ambulation
- D. Place the client in a prone position
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Maintaining hip abduction with pillows is crucial in preventing dislocation of the hip prosthesis postoperatively. This position helps keep the hip joint stable and reduces the risk of the prosthesis becoming displaced. Choices A, C, and D are not as effective in preventing dislocation. Keeping the client in a low Fowler's position does not provide the necessary hip support. While early ambulation is important for circulation and preventing complications, maintaining hip abduction is more specific to preventing prosthesis dislocation. Placing the client in a prone position can increase the risk of hip prosthesis dislocation due to the extreme positioning.
4 hours after administration of 20U of regular insulin, the client becomes shaky and diaphoretic. What action should the nurse take?
- A. Encourage the client to eat crackers and milk
- B. Administer a PRN dose of 10U of regular insulin
- C. Give the client crackers and milk
- D. Record the client's reaction in the diabetic flow sheet
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when a client becomes shaky and diaphoretic after insulin administration, indicating hypoglycemia, is to provide the client with carbohydrates like crackers and milk. Carbohydrates help raise blood glucose levels quickly. Encouraging the client to eat crackers and milk (Choice A) is the appropriate immediate action to address the hypoglycemia. Administering more insulin (Choice B) would worsen hypoglycemia, and recording the reaction (Choice D) is important but not the immediate action needed to treat the hypoglycemia.
What safety measure should be implemented when administering chemotherapy?
- A. Use protective gloves and gown
- B. Prepare the medication in a designated area
- C. Administer the medication at the appropriate rate
- D. Verify the two client identifiers
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When administering chemotherapy, it is crucial to use protective gloves and a gown to protect against exposure to hazardous drugs that can be harmful through skin contact. Choice B is incorrect because chemotherapy medication should be prepared in a designated area to prevent contamination and ensure accurate preparation. Choice C is incorrect as chemotherapy should be administered at the appropriate rate to ensure patient safety and avoid adverse effects. Choice D is incorrect as verifying client identifiers is important for medication administration in general but not a specific safety measure related to chemotherapy administration.