Clients taking lithium must be particularly sure to maintain adequate intake of which of these elements?
- A. Potassium
- B. Sodium
- C. Chloride
- D. Calcium
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Clients taking lithium need to maintain an adequate intake of sodium. Serum lithium concentrations may increase in the presence of conditions that cause sodium loss.
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The nurse is talking with the spouse of a client who is eligible for hospice care. The spouse states, 'I do not know if I can make this decision. What would you do?' Which of the following responses would be appropriate for the nurse to make?
- A. These decisions are challenging. Tell me about your spouse's beliefs regarding end-of-life care.
- B. You seem overwhelmed. I will ask the chaplain to speak with you about available options.
- C. I find it helpful to investigate all options. I will get you a pamphlet about hospice services.
- D. I had to make a similar decision when my spouse was ill. Do what feels best for you.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse should remain neutral and facilitate discussion about the client's values and preferences, helping the spouse make an informed decision without personal bias or directing to other resources prematurely.
Written instructions to pregnant women include instructions to perform Kegel exercises. One of the women asks the nurse why these exercises are important. The nurse should reply that the purpose of these exercises is to:
- A. increase circulation to the uterus.
- B. strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor.
- C. prepare the breasts for nursing.
- D. condition the pregnant woman for the 'work' of childbirth.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Kegel exercises strengthen pelvic floor muscles, supporting bladder control and aiding postpartum recovery, directly addressing their purpose.
A client with schizophrenia is ready to begin participating in therapeutic activities. The nurse should suggest that the client:
- A. Participate on the unit softball team
- B. Attend a class on psychotropic medication
- C. Participate in art activities with three other clients
- D. Watch TV in the unit day room
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Art activities with a small group provide a structured, low-stress environment suitable for a client with schizophrenia, promoting social interaction without overwhelming them.
The nurse is caring for a bedridden client experiencing fecal incontinence. Which nursing intervention is the highest priority for this client?
- A. Consult with the wound care nurse specialist
- B. Insert a rectal tube to contain the feces
- C. Provide perianal skin care with barrier cream
- D. Use incontinence briefs to protect the skin
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Perianal skin care with barrier cream prevents skin breakdown, a common complication of fecal incontinence. Wound care consultation follows if breakdown occurs. Rectal tubes risk complications, and briefs may trap moisture, worsening irritation.
The nurse is reinforcing discharge teaching on a client with polycythemia vera. Which would be included in the teaching plan?
- A. Avoid large crowds.
- B. Keep the head of the bed elevated at night.
- C. Wear socks and gloves when going outside.
- D. Know the signs and symptoms of thrombosis.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Polycythemia vera increases blood viscosity, raising the risk of thrombosis. Teaching the client to recognize signs and symptoms of thrombosis, such as swelling or pain in extremities, is critical. Avoiding large crowds relates to infection risk, not thrombosis. Elevating the head of the bed is unrelated, and wearing socks and gloves is more relevant for conditions like Raynaud's.