Nokea
An elderly nursing home resident who has always been alert and oriented is now showing signs of dehydration and has become confused. Which electrolyte imbalance is most likely involved?
- A. Hyponatremia
- B. Hypercalcemia
- C. Hyperkalemia
- D. Hypomagnesemia
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hypomagnesemia. Dehydration can lead to electrolyte imbalances, and hypomagnesemia can cause confusion in elderly patients. Magnesium plays a crucial role in brain function and its deficiency can result in cognitive impairment. Hyponatremia (A) typically presents with symptoms like weakness and confusion but not necessarily dehydration. Hypercalcemia (B) and hyperkalemia (C) are less likely to cause confusion in this scenario. Therefore, hypomagnesemia is the most likely electrolyte imbalance involved in the elderly nursing home resident's confusion.
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Which of the following is an adverse reaction to glipizide (Glucotrol)?
- A. Headache
- B. Hypotension
- C. Constipation
- D. Photosensitivity
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hypotension. Glipizide is a sulfonylurea medication used to treat diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels. Hypotension, or low blood pressure, can be an adverse reaction as glipizide may cause vasodilation leading to a drop in blood pressure. Headache (choice A), constipation (choice C), and photosensitivity (choice D) are not common adverse reactions associated with glipizide use. Headache may occur due to other factors, constipation is more commonly associated with opioids, and photosensitivity is typically seen with certain antibiotics or NSAIDs.
The initial neurological symptom of Guilain-Barre Syndrome is:
- A. Absent tendon reflex
- B. Paresthesia of the legs
- C. Dysrhythmias
- D. Transient hypertension Toni a 32 year old mother of two has had multiple sclerosis for 5 years. She is currently enrolled in a school of nursing. Her husband is supportive and helps with care of their preschool sons. Toni has been admitted to the clinical area for diagnostic studies related to symptoms of visual disturbances.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Step 1: Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is characterized by a rapid onset of weakness and tingling sensations in the legs.
Step 2: Paresthesia refers to abnormal sensations like tingling or numbness, which is a common initial neurological symptom of GBS.
Step 3: Absent tendon reflexes may occur in GBS due to muscle weakness but are not typically the initial symptom.
Step 4: Dysrhythmias and transient hypertension are not typical symptoms of GBS and are not associated with its initial presentation.
In summary, choice B is correct as paresthesia of the legs is a hallmark initial neurological symptom of Guillain-Barre Syndrome, while choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the typical presentation of GBS.
While interviewing an older female patient of Asian descent, the nurse notices that the patient looks at the ground when answering questions. What should the nurse do?
- A. Consider cultural differences during this assessment.
- B. Ask the patient to make eye contact to determine her affect.
- C. Continue with the interview and document that the patient is depressed.
- D. Notify the health care provider to recommend a psychological evaluation.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Consider cultural differences during this assessment. In many Asian cultures, avoiding direct eye contact is a sign of respect, humility, or shyness, rather than an indication of depression or dishonesty. By understanding and respecting cultural norms, the nurse can build rapport and trust with the patient. This approach promotes effective communication and a positive patient-provider relationship.
Option B is incorrect because forcing the patient to make eye contact may make her uncomfortable and hinder the therapeutic relationship. Option C is incorrect because assuming the patient is depressed based on cultural differences is inappropriate and may lead to misdiagnosis. Option D is incorrect because jumping to recommendations for a psychological evaluation without considering cultural differences first can be stigmatizing and unnecessary.
While interviewing an older female patient of Asian descent, the nurse notices that the patient looks at the ground when answering questions. What should the nurse do?
- A. Consider cultural differences during this assessment.
- B. Ask the patient to make eye contact to determine her affect.
- C. Continue with the interview and document that the patient is depressed.
- D. Notify the health care provider to recommend a psychological evaluation.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Consider cultural differences during this assessment. In many Asian cultures, avoiding direct eye contact is a sign of respect rather than depression. The nurse should be culturally sensitive and understand that different cultures have varying communication norms. By considering cultural differences, the nurse can build rapport and trust with the patient. Asking the patient to make eye contact (B) may be perceived as disrespectful and may hinder effective communication. Continuing with the interview and assuming depression (C) without further assessment is premature and may lead to misdiagnosis. Notifying the health care provider for a psychological evaluation (D) is not necessary at this stage as the behavior observed may be culturally influenced.
While interviewing an older female patient of Asian descent, the nurse notices that the patient looks at the ground when answering questions. What should the nurse do?
- A. Consider cultural differences during this assessment.
- B. Ask the patient to make eye contact to determine her affect.
- C. Continue with the interview and document that the patient is depressed.
- D. Notify the health care provider to recommend a psychological evaluation.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Recognize cultural differences in communication styles. In many Asian cultures, avoiding direct eye contact is a sign of respect, humility, or shyness.
Step 2: Understand that the patient's behavior may not indicate depression but rather a cultural norm.
Step 3: Adjust communication approach by respecting the patient's cultural preferences.
Step 4: Building trust and rapport by acknowledging and accommodating cultural differences.
Summary: Choice A is correct as it acknowledges and respects cultural differences. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not consider cultural aspects and may lead to misinterpretation and inappropriate actions.