Nokea
The nurse is evaluating the effectiveness of the medication regimen for a client with chronic kidney disease who is receiving sodium polystyrene sulfonate. It would indicate that the medication regimen has been effective if the client’s most recent laboratory test results indicate
- A. an increase in the serum calcium level
- B. an increase in the serum creatinine level
- C. a decrease in the serum potassium level
- D. a decrease in the serum phosphate level
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Sodium polystyrene sulfonate treats hyperkalemia in chronic kidney disease by exchanging sodium for potassium in the gut, so a decreased potassium level indicates effectiveness. Calcium levels are not directly affected, and rising creatinine indicates worsening kidney function.
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The nurse is evaluating how a client who has a halo brace is reacting to this change in his body image. Which statement by the client indicates a need for additional support in adjusting to the brace?
- A. I shall avoid going out in public since I may bump into people.'
- B. I don't mind that people look at me.'
- C. I told my grandchildren that this looks like a space helmet.'
- D. I like to sleep in the reclining chair that we have.'
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Avoiding public interaction suggests poor adjustment to the halo brace, indicating a need for support to address body image concerns.
The client is admitted to the labor and delivery unit with preeclampsia. An IV of magnesium sulfate is begun per pump. Which finding would indicate hypermagnesemia?
- A. Urinary output of $60 \mathrm{ml}$ per hour
- B. Respirations of 30 per minute
- C. Absence of the knee-jerk reflex
- D. Blood pressure of $150 / 80$
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Hypermagnesemia, a risk of magnesium sulfate therapy, causes symptoms like loss of deep tendon reflexes (e.g., knee-jerk reflex), respiratory depression, and hypotension. Urinary output of 60 ml/hour is normal, respirations of 30 suggest tachypnea, and BP of 150/80 is not specific to hypermagnesemia.
The nurse is caring for a client who had a seizure 10 minutes ago. The client is now confused and reports a headache. Which of the following phases of seizure activity should the nurse recognize the client is experiencing?
- A. Ictal phase
- B. Aural phase
- C. Postictal phase
- D. Prodromal phase
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The postictal phase follows a seizure, characterized by confusion and headache as the brain recovers. Ictal is the seizure itself, aural involves pre-seizure sensations, and prodromal is vague premonitory symptoms.
There have been several clients recently who have fallen in the long-term care facility. The nurse would like to reduce the number of falls. Which action is likely to do the most to help prevent falls?
- A. Ask the nursing assistants to watch the clients more closely.
- B. Restrain clients who cannot walk independently.
- C. Provide call bells so the clients can carry with them when they walk.
- D. Keep beds in the lowest position unless the nurse is performing care for the client.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Low bed height minimizes fall injury risk, a key prevention strategy. Closer watching, restraints, or call bells are less effective or restrictive.
The nurse is talking to a client with a newly diagnosed seizure disorder who has a prescription for levetiracetam. Which of the following statements by the client would require follow-up?
- A. I can begin driving my car again after I have been taking this medication for 2 weeks
- B. I need to contact my health care provider if I develop a rash while taking this medication
- C. I should report any new or increased anxiety I experience while taking this medication
- D. I understand that drowsiness is an adverse effect of this medication that may improve over time.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Driving restrictions for seizure disorders typically last 6-12 months seizure-free, not 2 weeks, posing a safety risk. Reporting rashes and anxiety are correct due to potential side effects of levetiracetam.