A client with cirrhosis of the liver is being cared for by the healthcare team. Which clinical manifestation indicates that the client has developed hepatic encephalopathy?
- A. Asterixis.
- B. Jaundice.
- C. Ascites.
- D. Splenomegaly.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Asterixis. Hepatic encephalopathy is a neuropsychiatric syndrome associated with liver dysfunction. Asterixis, also known as liver flap, is a key clinical manifestation characterized by a flapping tremor of the hands when extended. This occurs due to impaired ammonia metabolism in the liver leading to neurotoxicity. Jaundice (B) is a sign of liver dysfunction but not specific to hepatic encephalopathy. Ascites (C) is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, common in liver cirrhosis but not indicative of hepatic encephalopathy. Splenomegaly (D) is enlargement of the spleen, which can occur in cirrhosis but is not a direct sign of hepatic encephalopathy.
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A 60-year-old male client is admitted to the hospital with the complaint of right knee pain for the past week. His right knee and calf are warm and edematous. He has a history of diabetes and arthritis. Which neurological assessment action should the nurse perform for this client?
- A. Glasgow Coma Scale
- B. Assess pulses, paresthesia, and paralysis distal to the right knee
- C. Assess pulses, paresthesia, and paralysis proximal to the right knee
- D. Optic nerve using an ophthalmoscope
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess pulses, paresthesia, and paralysis distal to the right knee. This is the appropriate action because the client presents with warm, edematous right knee and calf, indicating a potential vascular issue like deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Assessing pulses, paresthesia, and paralysis distal to the right knee helps evaluate circulation and nerve function, crucial in identifying complications of DVT. Glasgow Coma Scale (A) is used to assess consciousness, not relevant in this case. Assessing proximal pulses, paresthesia, and paralysis (C) may not provide accurate information about circulation distal to the knee. Evaluating the optic nerve (D) using an ophthalmoscope is unrelated to the client's presenting symptoms and medical history.
The client with newly diagnosed osteoporosis is being taught by the nurse about dietary modifications. Which instruction should the nurse include?
- A. Increase your intake of high-calcium foods.
- B. Limit your intake of vitamin D-rich foods.
- C. Avoid foods high in phosphorus.
- D. Increase your intake of high-sodium foods.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increase your intake of high-calcium foods. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by low bone density, and calcium is essential for bone health. Increasing calcium intake can help strengthen bones and prevent further bone loss. Foods high in calcium, such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods, are beneficial for individuals with osteoporosis.
Summary of other choices:
B: Limiting intake of vitamin D-rich foods is not advised, as vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and bone health.
C: Avoiding foods high in phosphorus is not necessary, as phosphorus is also important for bone health and overall body function.
D: Increasing intake of high-sodium foods is not recommended, as high sodium intake can lead to calcium loss from the bones, worsening osteoporosis.
The client is prescribed clozapine (Clozaril), and the nurse plans to educate them about its purpose. Which statement should the nurse provide?
- A. It will help you function better in the community.
- B. The medication will help you think more clearly.
- C. You will be able to cope with your symptoms.
- D. It will improve your grooming and hygiene.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "The medication will help you think more clearly." This is the most appropriate statement to educate the client about clozapine. Clozapine is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and helps with cognitive symptoms such as disorganized thinking. Choice A is too vague and doesn't specify the medication's intended effect. Choice C is too general and doesn't focus on cognitive improvement. Choice D is incorrect as clozapine does not specifically target grooming and hygiene but rather cognitive symptoms.
The client has acute pancreatitis. Which nursing intervention is the highest priority?
- A. Administer pain medication as prescribed.
- B. Monitor the client's serum amylase and lipase levels.
- C. Encourage oral intake of clear liquids.
- D. Assess the client's bowel sounds every 4 hours.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer pain medication as prescribed. This is the highest priority because acute pancreatitis is a painful condition, and managing pain is crucial for the client's comfort and well-being. Pain control also helps reduce stress on the pancreas and can aid in preventing complications.
Choice B is incorrect because while monitoring serum amylase and lipase levels is important in diagnosing pancreatitis and assessing response to treatment, it is not the highest priority intervention.
Choice C is incorrect as encouraging oral intake of clear liquids may exacerbate pancreatitis symptoms and lead to further complications.
Choice D is incorrect as assessing bowel sounds, while important for monitoring gastrointestinal function, is not the highest priority in the acute management of pancreatitis.
A client with hypothyroidism is started on levothyroxine (Synthroid). Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I will take this medication every morning before breakfast.
- B. I should have my thyroid levels checked regularly.
- C. If I lose weight, I may need an increased dose.
- D. I can stop taking this medication once my symptoms improve.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Correct Answer: D
Rationale:
1. Levothyroxine is a lifelong medication for hypothyroidism.
2. Stopping medication prematurely can lead to symptom relapse.
3. Symptoms improving doesn't indicate the underlying condition is resolved.
4. Regular monitoring and dose adjustments are crucial.
5. Choice D shows misunderstanding of treatment duration and necessity.
Summary:
A: Correct, taking in the morning maximizes absorption.
B: Correct, monitoring is necessary for dose adjustments.
C: Correct, weight loss can affect thyroid hormone levels.
D: Incorrect, as stopping medication prematurely is not advised.