A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a thyroidectomy. The nurse should identify that which of the following client reports is an indication of hypocalcemia?
- A. Constipation
- B. Frequent urination
- C. Numbness and tingling of the fingers
- D. Increased thirst
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Numbness and tingling of the fingers.' Post-thyroidectomy, hypocalcemia is a concern due to potential damage to the parathyroid glands that regulate calcium levels. Numbness and tingling of the fingers are classic signs of hypocalcemia. Constipation (Choice A) is not typically associated with hypocalcemia. Frequent urination (Choice B) is more indicative of conditions like diabetes or a urinary tract infection. Increased thirst (Choice D) is commonly seen in conditions such as diabetes insipidus or uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, not specifically related to hypocalcemia.
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A client with heart failure is receiving a continuous IV infusion of milrinone. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Monitor the client's blood pressure continuously
- B. Weigh the client daily
- C. Monitor the infusion site for signs of infiltration
- D. Measure the client's intake and output every 2 hours
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Measuring the client's intake and output every 2 hours is essential when caring for a client receiving a continuous IV infusion of milrinone. Milrinone is a medication that affects fluid balance, and monitoring intake and output helps assess the client's response to the medication. Continuous monitoring of blood pressure may not be necessary unless there is a specific indication. While weighing the client daily is important for overall assessment, measuring intake and output more frequently provides more real-time data for fluid balance evaluation. Monitoring the infusion site is crucial for detecting infiltration but is not directly related to managing fluid balance in this situation.
A nurse is caring for a client who has severe preeclampsia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
- A. Administer magnesium sulfate.
- B. Place the client in the left lateral position.
- C. Monitor intake and output.
- D. Provide a low-sodium diet.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct intervention for a client with severe preeclampsia is to monitor intake and output. This is crucial to assess kidney function, fluid balance, and detect any signs of deterioration. Administering magnesium sulfate is indicated for seizure prophylaxis in severe preeclampsia, but it is not the primary intervention related to care planning. Placing the client in the left lateral position is not a specific intervention for managing preeclampsia. Providing a low-sodium diet is not typically recommended for clients with severe preeclampsia as sodium restriction is not a primary treatment modality for this condition.
A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a new prescription for nitroglycerin sublingual tablets. Which of the following statements should the nurse include?
- A. Take the medication with food to reduce stomach upset.
- B. Store the medication in a cool, dry place.
- C. Take one tablet every 5 minutes until the pain is relieved, up to three doses.
- D. This medication may cause drowsiness.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the client to take one nitroglycerin sublingual tablet every 5 minutes until the pain is relieved, up to three doses. This dosing regimen is essential for managing angina attacks effectively. Choice A is incorrect because nitroglycerin sublingual tablets should be placed under the tongue for rapid absorption, not taken with food. Choice B is incorrect because nitroglycerin tablets should be stored in their original container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Choice D is incorrect because nitroglycerin typically does not cause drowsiness as a side effect.
A nurse is caring for a client who has generalized petechiae and ecchymoses. The nurse should expect a prescription for which of the following laboratory tests?
- A. Platelet count
- B. Potassium level
- C. Creatinine clearance
- D. Prealbumin
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Platelet count. Platelet count helps assess clotting abnormalities that could cause petechiae and ecchymoses. Petechiae and ecchymoses are often associated with bleeding disorders, so it is crucial to evaluate the platelet count to determine if there is a deficiency in platelets. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because potassium level, creatinine clearance, and prealbumin do not directly relate to assessing clotting abnormalities associated with petechiae and ecchymoses.
A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client with major depressive disorder who is taking fluoxetine. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
- A. Heart rate of 80/min
- B. Blood pressure 130/80 mm Hg
- C. Weight gain of 2.2 kg (5 lb) in 1 week
- D. Temperature of 37.2°C (99°F)
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. A weight gain of 2.2 kg (5 lb) in 1 week can indicate fluid retention, a serious side effect of fluoxetine that should be reported to the provider. Choices A, B, and D are within normal ranges and are not alarming findings that would require immediate reporting to the provider. A heart rate of 80/min, blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg, and a temperature of 37.2°C (99°F) are all within normal limits and not typically concerning in a client taking fluoxetine.