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Question 1
A nurse is assessing a patient who reports sudden onset of
severe chest discomfort accompanied by diaphoresis, nausea,
and shortness of breath. Which action should the nurse take
first?
A. Obtain a detailed dietary history
B. Assess the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation
C. Ask the patient to rate the pain on a 0-to-10 scale
D. Provide education about risk-factor modification
The priority is assessment of airway, breathing, and circulation
because these are essential components of immediate
stabilization. Although obtaining a pain rating is important, it
should not delay assessment for potentially life-threatening
compromise. The patient's symptoms could indicate an acute
,cardiovascular emergency, making rapid evaluation of
physiologic stability the priority.
Question 2
A patient taking an antihypertensive medication reports
dizziness when standing. Which assessment finding most
strongly suggests orthostatic hypotension?
A. Blood pressure increases after standing
B. Heart rate decreases by 5 beats/minute after standing
C. Systolic blood pressure decreases significantly after
standing
D. Respiratory rate increases slightly after standing
Orthostatic hypotension is characterized by a clinically
significant reduction in blood pressure after changing position,
commonly associated with dizziness, weakness, or syncope.
Antihypertensive medications can contribute by reducing
vascular resistance or circulating volume. The nurse should
assess positional vital signs and implement measures to reduce
fall risk.
Question 3
Which finding in a patient receiving opioid analgesia requires
the most immediate intervention?
,A. Constipation
B. Mild nausea
C. Drowsiness
D. Respiratory depression
Respiratory depression is the most immediately life-threatening
adverse effect of opioid therapy. Opioids can suppress the
central respiratory drive, resulting in hypoventilation,
hypoxemia, and potentially respiratory arrest. Constipation,
nausea, and sedation are important adverse effects but
generally do not present the same immediate threat to life.
Question 4
A nurse is teaching a patient with diabetes about recognizing
hypoglycemia. Which symptom should the nurse identify as a
common early manifestation?
A. Warm, dry skin
B. Bradycardia
C. Diaphoresis and tremulousness
D. Deep, rapid respirations
Hypoglycemia activates the sympathetic nervous system,
producing manifestations such as sweating, tremors,
palpitations, anxiety, and hunger. These symptoms can occur
before neurologic manifestations develop. Deep, rapid
, respirations are more characteristic of metabolic acidosis, such
as diabetic ketoacidosis.
Question 5
A patient with chronic kidney disease is being monitored for
complications. Which laboratory abnormality is particularly
concerning?
A. Decreased serum creatinine
B. Decreased blood urea nitrogen
C. Increased serum potassium
D. Increased serum calcium
The kidneys play an important role in potassium excretion. As
renal function deteriorates, potassium can accumulate and
produce potentially fatal cardiac dysrhythmias. Hyperkalemia
therefore requires prompt recognition and management,
particularly when the elevation is substantial or accompanied by
electrocardiographic changes.
Question 6
A nurse is evaluating whether a patient understands medication
instructions. Which statement best demonstrates effective
medication teaching?