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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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The client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is receiving hemodialysis. Which finding should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately?
- A. Blood pressure of 150/90 mm Hg.
- B. Weight gain of 2 pounds since the last dialysis session.
- C. Blood glucose level of 120 mg/dl.
- D. Potassium level of 6.5 mEq/L.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Potassium level of 6.5 mEq/L. High potassium levels (hyperkalemia) in CKD patients receiving hemodialysis can lead to serious complications like cardiac arrhythmias or even cardiac arrest. Therefore, it is crucial to report this finding immediately to the healthcare provider for prompt intervention.
Explanation for other choices:
A: Blood pressure of 150/90 mm Hg - While elevated, this blood pressure reading is not an immediate concern unless accompanied by symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.
B: Weight gain of 2 pounds since the last dialysis session - While weight gain may indicate fluid retention, it is not an urgent issue unless it is rapid and significant.
C: Blood glucose level of 120 mg/dl - A blood glucose level of 120 mg/dl is within the normal range and does not require immediate action in this context.
A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus is prescribed metformin (Glucophage). Which instruction should the nurse provide?
- A. Take the medication on an empty stomach.
- B. Limit your fluid intake while on this medication.
- C. Monitor your blood glucose levels regularly.
- D. Avoid eating foods high in potassium.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Monitor your blood glucose levels regularly. This is important because metformin helps lower blood sugar levels, and monitoring glucose levels helps ensure the medication is effective and the client is not experiencing hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Option A is incorrect because metformin should be taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Option B is incorrect as metformin does not typically require fluid restriction. Option D is incorrect as metformin does not affect potassium levels. Regularly monitoring blood glucose levels is crucial for managing type 2 diabetes effectively.
During an admission physical assessment, the nurse is examining a newborn who is small for gestational age (SGA). Which finding should the nurse report immediately to the pediatric healthcare provider?
- A. Heel stick glucose of 65 mg/dL.
- B. Head circumference of 35 cm (14 inches).
- C. Widened, tense, bulging fontanel.
- D. High-pitched shrill cry.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Widened, tense, bulging fontanel. This finding is concerning as it can indicate increased intracranial pressure, potentially leading to serious complications in a newborn. The fontanel should be flat or slightly depressed, not bulging. Immediate reporting is necessary for timely intervention.
Incorrect choices:
A: Heel stick glucose of 65 mg/dL is slightly low but not an immediate concern; can be managed with feeding.
B: Head circumference of 35 cm is within the normal range for a newborn and does not require immediate action.
D: High-pitched shrill cry can be a sign of distress but not as urgent as a bulging fontanel in this context.
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 has received 250 ml of 0.9% normal saline through the IV line in the last hour. The client is now tachypneic and has a pulse rate of 120 beats/minute, with a pulse volume of +4. In addition to reporting the assessment findings to the healthcare provider, what action should the nurse implement?
- A. Discontinue the IV and apply pressure at the site.
- B. Decrease the saline to a keep-open rate.
- C. Increase the rate of the current IV solution.
- D. Change the IV fluid to 0.45% normal saline at the same rate.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Decrease the saline to a keep-open rate. The client is showing signs of fluid overload, indicated by tachypnea and bounding pulse. By decreasing the saline to a keep-open rate, the nurse can prevent further fluid overload while maintaining IV access. Discontinuing the IV and applying pressure (choice A) is not necessary unless there is a specific issue with the IV site. Increasing the rate of the current IV solution (choice C) would worsen the fluid overload. Changing the IV fluid to 0.45% normal saline (choice D) at the same rate may not effectively address the fluid overload concern.