The nurse is caring for a client with a history of epilepsy who is prescribed valproic acid (Depakene). Which of the following laboratory tests should the nurse monitor?
- A. Liver function tests.
- B. Renal function tests.
- C. Complete blood count.
- D. Blood glucose levels.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Valproic acid can cause hepatotoxicity, requiring regular monitoring of liver function tests.
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The nurse observes an 18-month-old who has been admitted with a respiratory tract infection (see figure). The nurse should first:
- A. Position the child supine
- B. Call the rapid response team
- C. Offer the child a carbonated drink
- D. Place the child in a croup tent
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: An 18-month-old with a respiratory tract infection may be in respiratory distress, requiring immediate action by calling the rapid response team. Positioning supine or offering a drink could worsen breathing, and a croup tent is specific to croup, not all infections.
A client has been diagnosed with multi-infarct (or vascular) dementia (MID). When preparing a teaching plan for the client and family, which of the following should the nurse include?
- A. Strategies to manage memory loss and confusion.
- B. Instructions to limit physical activity to prevent falls.
- C. The need for a low-protein diet to reduce metabolic stress.
- D. The importance of avoiding all medications that affect the brain.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Multi-infarct dementia involves memory loss and confusion due to multiple small strokes. Teaching strategies to manage these symptoms, such as memory aids and structured routines, is essential for supporting the client and family.
The nurse is observing an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) care for an older client who had surgery (insertion of a prosthesis) following a hip fracture 4 days ago. To prevent client injury, the nurse should intervene in the care when which action is performed by the UAP?
- A. Elevates the head of bed 30 degrees
- B. Assists the client in inserting dentures
- C. Obtains a bedside commode to keep in the room
- D. Places pillows between the legs when turning the client
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: After hip surgery when a prosthesis has been inserted, a client should not flex the body more than 90 degrees relative to the chair; sitting on a commode would mean a low seat. The toilet seat should be raised, so a special adapted commode should be placed in the room. The head of the bed can be raised slightly for comfort. Assisting the client in inserting dentures is within the duties of a UAP. The legs should be kept abducted, so using pillows between the legs when turning is required.
Select the hazard of immobility that is accurately paired with an appropriate expected outcome of care that the nurse provides to prevent this complication.
- A. Bone demineralization: Turning and positioning every 2 hours
- B. Urinary stasis: The client will consume 1,000 mL of oral fluids per day
- C. Muscle atrophy: The client will perform range of motion exercises at least 3 times a day
- D. Hypercalcemia: Maintaining fluid intake of 1,000 mL per day
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Range of motion exercises prevent muscle atrophy by maintaining muscle strength and function in immobile clients.
A primary health care provider has written a prescription for a client diagnosed with diabetic gastroparesis to receive metoclopramide four times a day. The nurse schedules this medication to be given at which times?
- A. With each meal and at bedtime
- B. Thirty minutes before meals and at bedtime
- C. One hour after each meal and at bedtime
- D. Every 6 hours spaced evenly around the clock
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Metoclopramide stimulates the motility of the upper gastrointestinal tract and is used to treat gastroparesis (nausea, vomiting, and persistent fullness after meals). The client should be taught to take this medication 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime. The before-meals administration allows the medication time to begin working before the client consumes food that requires digestion. The other options suggest information that is incorrect.
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