A nurse caring for a client with hypocalcemia would expect to note which of the following changes on the electrocardiogram?
- A. Widened T wave
- B. Prominent U wave
- C. Prolonged QT interval
- D. Shortened ST segment
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In hypocalcemia, a decreased level of calcium can lead to a prolonged QT interval on the ECG due to its role in myocardial repolarization. A widened T wave (Choice A) is typically seen in hyperkalemia. A prominent U wave (Choice B) is associated with hypokalemia. A shortened ST segment (Choice D) is not a typical ECG finding in hypocalcemia.
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The healthcare provider is assessing a client with hypothyroidism. Which of the following clinical findings would the healthcare provider expect?
- A. Tachycardia
- B. Weight loss
- C. Cold intolerance
- D. Diaphoresis
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Cold intolerance is a classic symptom of hypothyroidism. In hypothyroidism, the body's metabolic rate is decreased, leading to a reduced ability to regulate body temperature. As a result, individuals with hypothyroidism often feel cold, especially in their extremities. Tachycardia (A) is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism due to the increased metabolic rate. Weight loss (B) is also a typical finding in hyperthyroidism, as the body burns calories at a faster rate. Diaphoresis (D), excessive sweating, is not a typical symptom of hypothyroidism.
A nurse is assigned to care for a group of clients. On reviewing the clients' medical records, the nurse determines that which client is at risk for deficient fluid volume?
- A. A client with a colostomy
- B. A client with congestive heart failure
- C. A client with decreased kidney function
- D. A client receiving frequent wound irrigations
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Clients with a colostomy are at risk for deficient fluid volume due to the loss of fluid through the colostomy. In colostomy, there can be increased fluid loss through the stoma, which may lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Choices B, C, and D do not directly relate to the risk for deficient fluid volume. Clients with congestive heart failure are more prone to fluid overload rather than deficient volume. Clients with decreased kidney function are at risk for fluid retention, not deficient volume. Clients receiving frequent wound irrigations may be at risk for infection, but this does not directly indicate deficient fluid volume.
A client with Addison's disease is being educated about managing the condition during times of stress. The nurse should instruct the client to:
- A. Double the dose of corticosteroids during periods of stress.
- B. Skip the dose of corticosteroids if you feel well.
- C. Decrease fluid intake to prevent hypertension.
- D. Avoid physical activity during stressful times.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Clients with Addison's disease should be educated to double their corticosteroid dosage during periods of stress. This is crucial to prevent adrenal crisis, as stress can increase the body's demand for cortisol. Skipping doses when feeling well can lead to an adrenal crisis if stress occurs suddenly. Decreasing fluid intake can exacerbate dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which are already concerns in Addison's disease. Avoiding physical activity during stressful times is not the most appropriate advice; moderate physical activity can be beneficial, as long as the client is adequately managing their corticosteroid regimen.
When should a new nurse graduate consider applying for a position as a nurse manager?
- A. When she is comfortable in her current position
- B. When she begins mentoring other new nurses
- C. As soon as a position opens
- D. When she has developed leadership and clinical expertise
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A new nurse graduate should consider applying for a position as a nurse manager when she has developed leadership and clinical expertise. Option A, 'When she is comfortable in her current position,' is incorrect as comfort in the current position may not necessarily align with the skills required for a managerial role. Option B, 'When she begins mentoring other new nurses,' is not a definitive indicator of readiness for a managerial position. Option C, 'As soon as a position opens,' does not take into account the necessary skills and experience required for a nurse manager role. Therefore, the best time to consider applying for a nurse manager position is after developing the required leadership and clinical expertise.
Knowing that gluconeogenesis helps to maintain blood glucose levels, a healthcare provider should:
- A. Document weight changes due to fatty acid mobilization.
- B. Evaluate the patient's sensitivity to low room temperatures due to decreased adipose tissue insulation.
- C. Protect the patient from sources of infection due to decreased cellular protein deposits.
- D. Do all of the above.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Gluconeogenesis is a process where the body synthesizes glucose from non-carbohydrate sources to maintain blood glucose levels. Documenting weight changes due to fatty acid mobilization is important as it can impact the patient's metabolic status. Evaluating the patient's sensitivity to low room temperatures because of decreased adipose tissue insulation is crucial to prevent hypothermia. Protecting the patient from sources of infection due to decreased cellular protein deposits is essential to prevent complications. Therefore, all the options are relevant considerations in managing a patient undergoing gluconeogenesis, making option D the correct answer.
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