Exam 1 Test Questions

71. The nurse is admitting a client diagnosed with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Which clinical manifestations should be reported to the health-care provider? 1. Serum sodium of 112 mEq/L and a headache. 2. Serum potassium of 5.0 mEq/L and a heightened awareness. 3. Serum calcium of 10 mg/dL and tented tissue turgor. 4. Serum magnesium of 1.2 mg/dL and large urinary output.

1 1. A serum sodium level of 112 mEq/L is dangerously low, and the client is at risk for seizures. A headache is a symptom of a low sodium level. 2. This is a normal potassium level, and a heightened level of awareness indicates drug usage. 3. This is a normal calcium level and the client is fluid overloaded, not dehydrated, so there would not be tented tissue turgor. 4. This is a normal magnesium level, and a large urinary output is desired.

51. The nurse is planning the care of a client diagnosed with Addison's disease. Which intervention should be included? 1. Administer steroid medications. 2. Place the client on fluid restriction. 3. Provide frequent stimulation. 4. Consult physical therapy for gait training.

1 1. Clients diagnosed with Addison's disease have adrenal gland hypofunction. The hormones normally produced by the gland must be replaced. Steroids and androgens are produced by the adrenal gland. 2. The client will have decreased fluid volume, and fluid restriction exacerbates a crisis. 3. The client requires a quiet, calm, relaxed atmosphere. 4. The client walks with a stooped posture from fatigue, but gait training is not needed.

63. Which laboratory value should be monitored by the nurse for the client diagnosed with diabetes insipidus? 1. Serum sodium. 2. Serum calcium 3. Urine glucose. 4. Urine white blood cells.

1 1. The client will have an elevated sodium level as a result of low circulating blood volume. The fluid is being lost through the urine. Diabetes means "to pass through" in Greek, indicating polyuria, a symptom shared with diabetes mellitus. Diabetes insipidus is a totally separate disease process. 2. Serum calcium is not affected by diabetes insipidus. 3. Urine glucose is monitored for diabetes mellitus. 4. White blood cells in the urine indicate the presence of a urinary tract infection.

54. The nurse is performing discharge teaching for a client diagnosed with Cushing's disease. Which statement by the client demonstrates an understanding of the instructions? 1. "I will be sure to notify my health-care provider if I start to run a fever." 2. "Before I stop taking the prednisone, I will be taught how to taper it off." 3. "If I get weak and shaky, I need to eat some hard candy or drink some juice." 4. "It is fine if I continue to participate in weekend games of tackle football."

1 1. Cushing's syndrome/disease predisposes the client to develop infections as a result of the immunosuppressive nature of the disease. 2. The client has too much cortisol; this client should not be receiving prednisone, a steroid medication. 3. These are symptoms of hypoglycemia, which is not expected in this client because this client has high glucose levels. 4. The client is predisposed to osteoporosis and fractures. Contact sports should be avoided.

57. client diagnosed with Addison's disease is admitted to the emergency department after a day at the lake. The client is lethargic, forgetful, and weak. Which intervention should the nurse implement? 1. Start an IV with an 18-gauge needle and infuse NS rapidly. 2. Have the client wait in the waiting room until a bed is available. 3. Obtain a permit for the client to receive a blood transfusion. 4. Collect urinalysis and blood samples for a CBC and calcium level.

1 1. The client was exposed to wind and sun at the lake during the hours prior to being admitted to the emergency department. This predisposes the client to dehydration and an addisonian crisis. Rapid IV fluid replacement is necessary. 2. Sitting in the waiting area could cause the client to go into a coma and die. 3. A blood transfusion is not an appropriate intervention for this client. 4. Laboratory specimens are not priority and calcium is not a problem in clients with Addison's disease.

17. The client diagnosed with type 1 diabetes is found lying unconscious on the floor of the bathroom. Which intervention should the nurse implement first? 1. Administer 50% dextrose IVP. 2. Notify the health-care provider. 3. Move the client to the ICU. 4. Check the serum glucose level.

1 1. The nurse should assume the client is hypoglycemic and administer IVP dextrose, which will rouse the client immediately. If the collapse is the result of hyperglycemia, this additional dextrose will not further injure the client. 2. The health-care provider may or may not need to be notified, but this is not the first intervention. 3. The client should be left in the client's room, and 50% dextrose should be administered first. 4. The serum glucose level requires a venipuncture, which will take too long. A blood glucometer reading may be obtained, but the nurse should first treat thclient, not the machine. The glucometer only reads "low" after a certain point, and a serum level is needed to confirm exact glucose level

14. The elderly client is admitted to the intensive care department diagnosed with severe HHNS. Which collaborative intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care? 1. Infuse 0.9% normal saline intravenously. 2. Administer intermediate-acting insulin. 3. Perform blood glucometer checks daily. 4. Monitor arterial blood gas results.

1 The initial fluid replacement is 0.9% normal saline (an isotonic solution) intravenously, followed by 0.45% saline. The rate depends on the client's fluid volume status and physical health, especially of the heart. 2. Regular insulin, not intermediate, is the insulin of choice because of its quick onset and peak in two (2) to four (4) hours. 3. Blood glucometer checks are done every one (1) hour or more often in clients with HHNS who are receiving regular insulin drips. 4. Arterial blood gases are not affected in HHNS because there is no breakdown of fat resulting in ketones leading to metabolic acidosis.

68. The nurse is planning the care of a client diagnosed with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Which interventions should be implemented? Select all that apply. 1. Restrict fluids per health-care provider order. 2. Assess level of consciousness every two (2) hours. 3. Provide an atmosphere of stimulation. 4. Monitor urine and serum osmolality. 5. Weigh the client every three (3) days.

124 1. Fluids are restricted to 500 to 600 mL per 24 hours. 2. Orientation to person, place, and time should be assessed every two (2) hours or more often. 3. A safe environment, not a stimulating one, is provided. 4. Urine and serum osmolality are monitored to determine fluid volume status. 5. The client should be weighed daily.

53. The client has developed iatrogenic Cushing's disease. Which statement is the scientific rationale for the development of this diagnosis? 1. The client has an autoimmune problem causing the destruction of the adrenal cortex. 2. The client has been taking steroid medications for an extended period for another disease process. 3. The client has a pituitary gland tumor causing the adrenal glands to produce too much cortisol. 4. The client has developed an adrenal gland problem for which the health-care provider does not have an explanation.

2 1. Cushing's disease is not an autoimmune problem. 2. "Iatrogenic" means a problem has been caused by a medical treatment or procedure—in this case, treatment with steroids for another problem. Clients taking steroids over a period of time develop the clinical manifestations of Cushing's disease. Disease processes for which long-term steroids are prescribed include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cancer, and arthritis. 3. This could be a cause for primary Cushing's syndrome. 4. There is a known reason for the client to have iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome.

64. The nurse is discharging a client diagnosed with diabetes insipidus. Which statement made by the client warrants further intervention? 1. "I will keep a list of my medications in my wallet and wear a Medic Alert bracelet." 2. "I should take my medication in the morning and leave it refrigerated at home." 3. "I should weigh myself every morning and record any weight gain." 4. "If I develop a tightness in my chest, I will call my health-care provider."

2 1. The client should keep a list of medication being taken and wear a Medic Alert bracelet. 2. Medication for DI is usually taken every 8 to 12 hours, depending on the client. The client should keep the medication close at hand. 3. The client is at risk for fluid shifts. Weighing every morning allows the client to follow the fluid shifts. Weight gain indicates too much medication. 4. Tightness in the chest could be an indicator the medication is not being tolerated; if this occurs, the client should notify the health-care provider.

52. The client is admitted to rule out Cushing's syndrome. Which laboratory tests should the nurse anticipate being ordered? 1. Plasma drug levels of quinidine, digoxin, and hydralazine. 2. Plasma levels of ACTH and cortisol. 3. A 24-hour urine for metanephrine and catecholamine. 4. Spot urine for creatinine and white blood cells.

2 1. The drugs quinidine, digoxin, and hydralazine can interfere with adrenal gland secretions and cause hypofunction. Cushing's syndrome is adrenal gland hyperfunction. 2. The adrenal gland secretes cortisol and the pituitary gland secretes adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), a hormone used by the body to stimulate the production of cortisol. 3. A 24-hour urine specimen for 17-hydroxycorticosterone and 17-ketosteroid may be collected. Metanephrines and catecholamines are urine collections for pheochromocytomas. 4. Spot urinalysis and white blood cell count will not provide information on adrenal gland functions.

18. Which assessment data indicate the client diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis is responding to the medical treatment? 1. The client has tented skin turgor and dry mucous membranes. 2. The client is alert and oriented to date, time, and place. 3. The client's ABG results are pH 7.29, PaCO2 44, HCO3 15. 4. The client's serum potassium level is 3.3 mEq/L.

2 1. This indicates the client is dehydrated, which does not indicate the client is getting better. 2. The client's level of consciousness can be altered because of dehydration and acidosis. If the client's sensorium is intact, the client is getting better and responding to the medical treatment. 3. These ABGs indicate metabolic acidosis; therefore, the client is not responding to treatment. 4. This potassium level is low and indicates hypokalemia, which shows the client is not responding to medical treatment.

20. The emergency department nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with HHNS who has a blood glucose of 680 mg/dL. Which question should the nurse ask the client to determine the cause of this acute complication? 1. "When is the last time you took your insulin?" 2. "When did you have your last meal?" 3. "Have you had some type of infection lately?" 4. "How long have you had diabetes?"

3 1. A client with type 2 diabetes usually is prescribed oral hypoglycemic medications, not insulin. 2. The client could not eat enough food to cause a 680-mg/dL blood glucose level; therefore, this question does not need to be asked. 3. The most common precipitating factor is infection. The manifestations may be slow to appear, with onset ranging from 24 hours to 2 weeks. 4. This does not help determine the cause of this client's HHNS

49. The nurse is admitting a client diagnosed with primary adrenal cortex insufficiency (Addison's disease). Which clinical manifestations should the nurse expect to assess? 1. Moon face, buffalo hump, and hyperglycemia. 2. Hirsutism, fever, and irritability. 3. Bronze pigmentation, hypotension, and anorexia. 4. Tachycardia, bulging eyes, and goiter.

3 1. A moon face, buffalo hump, and hyperglycemia result from Cushing's syndrome, hyperfunction of the adrenal gland. 2. Hirsutism is hair growth where it normally does not occur, such as facial hair on women. Fever and irritability, along with hirsutism, are clinical manifestations of Cushing's syndrome. 3. Bronze pigmentation of the skin, particularly of the knuckles and other areas of skin creases, occurs in Addison's disease. Hypotension and anorexia also occur with Addison's disease. 4. Tachycardia, bulging eyes, and goiter are clinical manifestations occurring with thyroid disorders.

56. The nurse writes a problem of "altered body image" for a 34-year-old client diagnosed with Cushing's disease. Which intervention should be implemented? 1. Monitor blood glucose levels prior to meals and at bedtime. 2. Perform a head-to-toe assessment on the client every shift. 3. Use therapeutic communication to allow the client to discuss feelings. 4. Assess bowel sounds and temperature every four (4) hours.

3 1. Blood glucose levels do not address the problem of altered body image. 2. Head-to-toe assessments are performed to detect a physiological problem, not a psychosocial one. 3. Allowing the client to ventilate feelings about the altered body image is the most appropriate intervention. The nurse cannot do anything to help the client's buffalo hump or moon face. 4. Bowel sounds and temperature are physical symptoms.

66. The nurse is caring for clients on a medical floor. Which client should be assessed first? 1. The client diagnosed with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) who has a weight gain of 1.5 pounds since yesterday. 2. The client diagnosed with a pituitary tumor who has developed diabetes insipidus (DI) and has an intake of 1,500 mL and an output of 1,600 mL in the last 8 hours. 3. The client diagnosed with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) who is having muscle twitching. 4. The client diagnosed with diabetes insipidus (DI) who is complaining of feeling tired after having to get up at night.

3 1. Clients with SIADH have a problem with retaining fluid. This is expected. 2. This client's intake and output are relatively the same. 3. Muscle twitching is a sign of early sodium imbalance. If an immediate intervention is not made, the client could begin to seize. 4. The client has to get up all night to urinate, so the client feeling tired is expected.

72. The male client diagnosed with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) secondary to cancer of the lung tells the nurse he wants to discontinue the fluid restriction and does not care if he dies. Which action by the nurse is an example of the ethical principle of autonomy? 1. Discuss the information the client told the nurse with the health-care provider and significant other. 2. Explain it is possible the client could have a seizure if he drank fluid beyond the restrictions. 3. Notify the health-care provider of the client's wishes and give the client fluids as desired. 4. Allow the client an extra drink of water and explain the nurse could get into trouble if the client tells the health-care provider.

3 1. Discussing the information with others is not allowing the client to decide what is best for himself. 2. This could be an example of beneficence (to do good) if the nurse did this so the client has information on which to base a decision on whether to continue the fluid restriction. 3. This is an example of autonomy (the client has the right to decide for himself). 4. This is an example of dishonesty and should never be tolerated in a health-care setting.

21. The nurse is discussing ways to prevent diabetic ketoacidosis with the client diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Which instruction is most important to discuss with the client? 1. Refer the client to the American Diabetes Association. 2. Do not take any over-the-counter medications. 3. Take the prescribed insulin even when unable to eat because of illness. 4. Explain the need to get the annual flu and pneumonia vaccines.

3 1. The American Diabetes Association is an excellent referral, but the nurse should discuss specific ways to prevent DKA. 2. The client should be careful with OTC medications, but this intervention does not help prevent the development of DKA. 3. Illness increases blood glucose levels; therefore, the client must take insulin and consume high-carbohydrate foods such as regular Jell-O, regular popsicles, and orange juice. 4. Vaccines are important to help prevent illness, but regardless of whether the client gets these vaccines, the client can still develop diabetic ketoacidosis.

65. The client is admitted to the medical unit with a diagnosis of rule-out diabetes insipidus (DI). Which instructions should the nurse teach regarding a fluid deprivation test? 1. The client will be asked to drink 100 mL of fluid as rapidly as possible and then will not be allowed fluid for 24 hours. 2. The client will be administered an injection of antidiuretic hormone, and urine output will be measured for four (4) to six (6) hours. 3. The client will be NPO, and vital signs and weights will be done hourly until the end of the test. 4. An IV will be started with normal saline, and the client will be asked to try to hold the urine in the bladder until a sonogram can be done.

3 1. The client is not allowed to drink during the test. 2. This test does not require any medications to be administered, and vasopressin will treat the DI, not help diagnose it. 3. The client is deprived of all fluids, and if the client has DI the urine production will not diminish. Vital signs and weights are taken every hour to determine circulatory status. If a marked decrease in weight or vital signs occurs, the test is immediately terminated. 4. No fluid is allowed and a sonogram is not involved.

70. The unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) complains to the nurse she has filled the water pitcher four (4) times during the shift for a client diagnosed with a closed head injury and the client has asked for the pitcher to be filled again. Which intervention should the nurse implement first? 1. Tell the UAP to fill the pitcher with ice cold water. 2. Instruct the UAP to start measuring the client's I & O. 3. Assess the client for polyuria and polydipsia. 4. Check the client's BUN and creatinine levels.

3 1. The client should have the water pitcher filled, but this is not the first action. 2. This should be done but not before assessing the problem. 3. The first action should be to determine if the client is experiencing polyuria and polydipsia as a result of developing diabetes insipidus, a complication of the head trauma. 4. This could be done, but it will not give the nurse information about DI.

60. The client diagnosed with Cushing's disease has undergone a unilateral adrenalectomy. Which discharge instructions should the nurse discuss with the client? 1. Instruct the client to take the glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid medications as prescribed. 2. Teach the client regarding sexual functioning and androgen replacement therapy. 3. Explain the signs and symptoms of infection and when to call the health-care provider. 4. Demonstrate turn, cough, and deep-breathing exercises the client should perform every (2) hours.

3 1. A unilateral adrenalectomy results in one adrenal gland still functioning. No hormone replacement will be required. 2. The client can still have normal physiological functioning, including sexual functioning, with the remaining gland. 3. Notifying the HCP if signs/symptoms of infection develop is an instruction given to all surgical clients on discharge. 4. Turning and coughing is taught prior to surgery, not at discharge

13. The client diagnosed with type 2 diabetes is admitted to the intensive care unit with hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketonic syndrome (HHNS) coma. Which assessment data should the nurse expect the client to exhibit? 1. Kussmaul's respirations. 2. Diarrhea and epigastric pain. 3. Dry mucous membranes. 4. Ketone breath odor.

3 1. Kussmaul's respirations occur with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) as a result of the breakdown of fat, resulting in ketones. 2. Diarrhea and epigastric pain are not associated with HHNS. 3. Dry mucous membranes are a result of the hyperglycemia and occur with both HHNS and DKA. 4. This occurs with DKA as a result of the breakdown of fat, resulting in ketones.

55. The charge nurse of an intensive care unit is making assignments for the night shift. Which client should be assigned to the most experienced intensive care nurse? 1. The client diagnosed with respiratory failure who is on a ventilator and requires frequent sedation. 2. The client diagnosed with lung cancer and iatrogenic Cushing's disease with ABGs of pH 7.35, PaO2 88, PaCO2 44, and HCO3 22. 3. The client diagnosed with Addison's disease who is lethargic and has a BP of 80/45, P 124, and R 28. 4. The client diagnosed with hyperthyroidism who has undergone a thyroidectomy two (2) days ago and has a negative Trousseau's sign.

3 1. This client could be cared for by any nurse qualified to work in an intensive care unit. 2. These blood gases are within normal limits. 3. This client has a low blood pressure and tachycardia. This client may be experiencing an addisonian crisis, a potentially life-threatening condition. The most experienced nurse should care for this client. 4. A negative Trousseau's sign is normal for this client.

69. The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with diabetes insipidus (DI). Which intervention should be implemented? 1. Administer sliding-scale insulin as ordered. 2. Restrict caffeinated beverages. 3. Check urine ketones if blood glucose is >250. 4. Assess tissue turgor every four (4) hours.

4 1. Diabetes insipidus is not diabetes mellitus; sliding-scale insulin is not administered to the client. 2. There is no caffeine restriction for DI. 3. Checking urine ketones is not indicated. 4. The client is excreting large amounts of dilute urine. If the client is unable to drink enough fluids, the client will quickly become dehydrated, so tissue turgor should be assessed frequently

16. The client diagnosed with HHNS was admitted yesterday with a blood glucose level of 780 mg/dL. The client's blood glucose level is now 300 mg/dL. Which intervention should the nurse implement? 1. Increase the regular insulin IV drip. 2. Check the client's urine for ketones. 3. Provide the client with a therapeutic diabetic meal. 4. Notify the HCP to obtain an order to decrease insulin

4 1. The regular intravenous insulin is continued because ketosis is not present, as with DKA. 2. The client diagnosed with type 2 diabetes does not excrete ketones in HHNS because there is enough insulin to prevent fat breakdown but not enough to lower blood glucose. 3. The client may or may not feel like eating, but it is not the appropriate intervention when the blood glucose level is reduced to 300 mg/dL. 4. When the glucose level is decreased to around 300 mg/dL, the regular insulin infusion therapy is decreased. Subcutaneous insulin will be administered per sliding scale.

Which finding indicates to the nurse that the current therapies are effective for a patient with acute adrenal insufficiency? a. Increasing serum sodium levels c. Decreasing serum chloride levels b. Decreasing blood glucose levels d. Increasing serum potassium levels

ANS: A Clinical manifestations of Addison's disease include hyponatremia and an increase in sodium level indicates improvement. The other values indicate that treatment has not been effective.

The nurse determines that additional instruction is needed for a patient with chronic syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) when the patient makes which statement? a. "I need to shop for foods low in sodium and avoid adding salt to food." b. "I should weigh myself daily and report any sudden weight loss or gain." c. "I need to limit my fluid intake to no more than 1 quart of liquids a day." d. "I should eat foods high in potassium because diuretics cause potassium loss."

ANS: A Patients with SIADH are at risk for hyponatremia, and a sodium supplement may be prescribed. The other patient statements are correct and indicate successful teaching has occurred.

The nurse is caring for a patient admitted with diabetes insipidus (DI). Which information is most important to report to the health care provider? a. The patient is confused and lethargic. b. The patient reports a recent head injury. c. The patient has a urine output of 400 mL/hr. d. The patient's urine specific gravity is 1.003.

ANS: A The patient's confusion and lethargy may indicate hypernatremia and should be addressed quickly. In addition, patients with DI compensate for fluid losses by drinking copious amounts of fluids, but a patient who is lethargic will be unable to drink enough fluids and will become hypovolemic. A high urine output, low urine specific gravity, and history of a recent head injury are consistent with diabetes insipidus, but they do not require immediate nursing action to avoid life-threatening complications.

A patient is admitted with diabetes insipidus. Which action will be appropriate for the registered nurse (RN) to delegate to an experienced licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN)? a. Titrate the infusion of 5% dextrose in water. b. Administer prescribed subcutaneous DDAVP. c. Assess the patient's overall hydration status every 8 hours. d. Teach the patient how to use desmopressin (DDAVP) nasal spray.

ANS: B Administration of medications is included in LPN/LVN education and scope of practice. Assessments, patient teaching, and titrating fluid infusions are more complex skills and should be done by the RN.

The cardiac telemetry unit charge nurse receives status reports from other nursing units about four patients who need cardiac monitoring. Which patient should be transferred to the cardiac unit first? a. Patient with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and a heart rate of 102 b. Patient with tetany who has a new order for IV calcium chloride c. Patient with Cushing syndrome and a blood glucose of 140 mg/dL d. Patient with Addison's disease who takes hydrocortisone twice daily

ANS: B Emergency treatment of tetany requires IV administration of calcium; electrocardiographic monitoring will be required because cardiac arrest may occur if high calcium levels result from too-rapid administration. The information about the other patients indicates that they are more stable than the patient with tetany.

The nurse admits a patient to the hospital in Addisonian crisis. Which patient statement supports the need to plan additional teaching? a. "I frequently eat at restaurants, and my food has a lot of added salt." b. "I had the flu earlier this week, so I couldn't take the hydrocortisone." c. "I always double my dose of hydrocortisone on the days that I go for a long run." d. "I take twice as much hydrocortisone in the morning dose as I do in the afternoon."

ANS: B The need for hydrocortisone replacement is increased with stressors such as illness, and the patient needs to be taught to call the health care provider because medication and IV fluids and electrolytes may need to be given. The other patient statements indicate appropriate management of the Addison's disease.

Which information obtained by the nurse in the endocrine clinic about a patient who has been taking prednisone 40 mg daily for 3 weeks is most important to report to the health care provider? a. Patient's blood pressure is 148/94 mm Hg. b. Patient has bilateral 2+ pitting ankle edema. c. Patient stopped taking the medication 2 days ago. d. Patient has not been taking the prescribed vitamin D.

ANS: C Sudden cessation of corticosteroids after taking the medication for a week or more can lead to adrenal insufficiency, with problems such as severe hypotension and hypoglycemia. The patient will need immediate evaluation by the health care provider to prevent or treat adrenal insufficiency. The other information will also be reported but does not require rapid treatment.

A 44-yr-old female patient with Cushing syndrome is admitted for adrenalectomy. Which intervention by the nurse will be most helpful for the patient problem of disturbed body image related to changes in appearance? a. Reassure the patient that the physical changes are very common in patients with Cushing syndrome. b. Discuss the use of diet and exercise in controlling the weight gain associated with Cushing syndrome. c. Teach the patient that the metabolic impact of Cushing syndrome is of more importance than appearance. d. Remind the patient that most of the physical changes caused by Cushing syndrome will resolve after surgery.

ANS: D The most reassuring and accurate communication to the patient is that the physical and emotional changes caused by the Cushing syndrome will resolve after hormone levels return to normal postoperatively. Reassurance that the physical changes are expected or that there are more serious physiologic problems associated with Cushing syndrome are not therapeutic responses. The patient's physiological changes are caused by the high hormone levels, not by the patient's diet or exercise choices.

Nurse Sugar is assessing a client with Cushing's syndrome. Which observation should the nurse report to the physician immediately? An irregular apical pulse Dry mucous membranes Pitting edema of the legs Frequent urination

An irregular apical pulse Because Cushing's syndrome causes aldosterone overproduction, which increases urinary potassium loss, the disorder may lead to hypokalemia. Therefore, the nurse should immediately report signs and symptoms of hypokalemia, such as an irregular apical pulse, to the physician. Edema is an expected finding because aldosterone overproduction causes sodium and fluid retention. Dry mucous membranes and frequent urination signal dehydration, which isn't associated with Cushing's syndrome.

A patient with SIADH is undergoing IV treatment of a hypertonic IV solution of 3% saline and IV Lasix. Which of the following nursing findings requires intervention? Assessment finding of crackles throughout the lung fields. Patient reports urinating more frequently. Potassium level of 5.0. Sodium level of 136.

Assessment finding of crackles throughout the lung fields Answer is "Assessment finding of crackles throughout the lung fields". Remember that when administering a hypertonic solution you have to do this very slowly and watch for volume overload. Hypertonic solutions pull fluid from the cell (which is already water intoxicated) and place it back into the vascular system...therefore, crackles in the lungs are a sign there is too much fluid in the body and the heart can not compensate so the fluid is backing up into the lungs. This would require intervention.

58. The client diagnosed with Cushing's disease has developed 1+ peripheral edema. The client has received intravenous fluids at 100 mL/hr via IV pump for the past 79 hours. The client received IVPB medication in 50 mL of fluid every 6 hours for 15 doses. How many mL of fluid did the client receive? ________

The client has received 8,650 mL of intravenous fluid.

67. The health-care provider has ordered 40 g/24 hr of intranasal vasopressin for a client diagnosed with diabetes insipidus. Each metered spray delivers 10 g. The client takes the medication every 12 hours. How many sprays are delivered at each dosing time?

Two (2) sprays per dose. 40 g of medication every 24 hours is to be given in doses administered every 12 hours. First, determine number of doses needed: 24 ÷ 12 = 2 doses Then, determine the amount of medication to be given in each of those two (2) doses: 40 ÷ 2 = 20 g of medication per dose Finally, determine how many sprays are needed to deliver the 20 mg when each spray delivers 10 g: 20 ÷ 10 = 2 sprays

Which patient is most at risk for developing Syndrome of Inappropriate Anti-diuretic Hormone (SIADH)? A patient diagnosed with small cell lung cancer. A patient whose kidney tubules are failing to reabsorb water. A patient with a tumor on the anterior pituitary gland. A patient taking Declomycin.

patient diagnosed with small cell lung cancer

Where is the anti-diuretic hormone PRODUCED in the body? • Anterior pituitary gland • Posterior pituitary gland • Hypothalamus • Medulla

Hypothalamus

24. The client is admitted to the ICU diagnosed with DKA. Which interventions should the nurse implement? Select all that apply. 1. Maintain adequate ventilation. 2. Assess fluid volume status. 3. Administer intravenous potassium. 4. Check for urinary ketones. 5. Monitor intake and output.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5 1. The nurse should always address the airway when a client is seriously ill. 2. The client must be assessed for fluid volume deficit and then for fluid volume volume excess after fluid replacement is started. 3. The electrolyte imbalance of primary concern is depletion of potassium. 4. Ketones are excreted in the urine; levels are documented from negative to large amount. Ketones should be monitored frequently. 5. The nurse must ensure the client's fluid intake and output are equal.

19. The UAP on the medical floor tells the nurse the client diagnosed with DKA wants something else to eat for lunch. Which intervention should the nurse implement? 1. Instruct the UAP to get the client additional food. 2. Notify the dietitian about the client's request. 3. Request the HCP increase the client's caloric intake. 4. Tell the UAP the client cannot have anything else.

2 1. The client is on a special diet and should not have any additional food. 2. The client will not be compliant with the diet if he or she is still hungry. Therefore, the nurse should request the dietitian talk to the client to try to adjust the meals so the client will adhere to the diet. 3. The nurse does not need to notify the HCP for an increase in caloric intake. The appropriate referral is to the dietitian. 4. The client is on a special diet. The nurse needs to help the client maintain compliance with the medical treatment and should refer the client to the dietitian

Nurse Ronn is assessing a client with possible Cushing's syndrome. In a client with Cushing's syndrome, the nurse would expect to find: Weight gain in arms and legs. Thick, coarse skin. Hypotension. Deposits of adipose tissue in the trunk and dorsocervical area.

Deposits of adipose tissue in the trunk and dorsocervical area

A female client with Cushing's syndrome is admitted to the medical-surgical unit. During the admission assessment, nurse Tyzz notes that the client is agitated and irritable, has poor memory, reports loss of appetite, and appears disheveled. These findings are consistent with which problem? Neuropathy Hypoglycemia Hyperthyroidism Depression

Depression; Agitation, irritability, poor memory, loss of appetite, and neglect of one's appearance may signal depression, which is common in clients with Cushing's syndrome. Neuropathy affects clients with diabetes mellitus — not Cushing's syndrome. Although hypoglycemia can cause irritability, it also produces increased appetite, rather than loss of appetite. Hyperthyroidism typically causes such signs as goiter, nervousness, heat intolerance, and weight loss despite increased appetite.

The anti-diuretic hormone is __________ in Diabetes Insipidus and _________ in SIADH. • high, low • absent, absent • low, high • low, low

low, high

A patient is to receive methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) 100 mg. The label on the medication states: methylprednisolone 125 mg in 2 mL. How many milliliters will the nurse administer?

1.6

61. The client diagnosed with a pituitary tumor developed syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Which interventions should the nurse implement? 1. Assess for dehydration and monitor blood glucose levels. 2. Assess for nausea and vomiting and weigh daily. 3. Monitor potassium levels and encourage fluid intake. 4. Administer vasopressin IV and conduct a fluid deprivation test.

2 1. The client has excess fluid and is not dehydrated, and blood glucose levels are not affected. 2. Early signs and symptoms are nausea and vomiting. The client has the syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic (against allowing the body to urinate) hormone. In other words, the client is producing a hormone that will not allow the client to urinate. 3. The client experiences dilutional hyponatremia, and the body has too much fluid already. 4. Vasopressin is the name of the antidiuretic hormone. Giving more increases the client's problem. Also, a water challenge test is performed, not a fluid deprivation test.

15. Which electrolyte replacement should the nurse anticipate being ordered by the health-care provider in the client diagnosed with DKA who has just been admitted to the ICU? 1. Glucose. 2. Potassium. 3. Calcium. 4. Sodium.

2 1. Glucose is elevated in DKA; therefore, the HCP would not be replacing glucose. 2. The client in DKA loses potassium from increased urinary output, acidosis, catabolic state, and vomiting. Replacement is essential for preventing cardiac dysrhythmias secondary to hypokalemia. 3. Calcium is not affected in the client with DKA. 4. The prescribed IV for DKA—0.9% normal saline—has sodium, but it is not specifically ordered for sodium replacement. This is an isotonic solution.

23. Which arterial blood gas results should the nurse expect in the client diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis? 1. pH 7.34, PaO2 99, PaCO2 48, HCO3 24. 2. pH 7.38, PaO2 95, PaCO2 40, HCO3 22. 3. pH 7.46, PaO2 85, PaCO2 30, HCO3 26. 4. pH 7.30, PaO2 90, PaCO2 30, HCO3 18.

4 1. This ABG indicates respiratory acidosis, which is not expected. 2. This ABG is normal, which is not expected. 3. This ABG indicates respiratory alkalosis, which is not expected. 4. This ABG indicates metabolic acidosis, which is expected in a client diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis.

The nurse is planning postoperative care for a patient who is being admitted to the surgical unit from the recovery room after transsphenoidal resection of a pituitary tumor. Which nursing action should be included? a. Palpate extremities for edema. b. Measure urine volume every hour. c. Check hematocrit every 2 hours for 8 hours. d. Monitor continuous pulse oximetry for 24 hours.

ANS: B After pituitary surgery, the patient is at risk for diabetes insipidus caused by cerebral edema. Monitoring of urine output and urine specific gravity is essential. Hemorrhage is not a common problem. There is no need to check the hematocrit hourly. The patient is at risk for dehydration, not volume overload. The patient is not at high risk for problems with oxygenation, and continuous pulse oximetry is not needed.

The nurse determines that demeclocycline is effective for a patient with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) based on finding that the patient's a. weight has increased. c. peripheral edema is increased. b. urinary output is increased. d. urine specific gravity is increased.

ANS: B Demeclocycline blocks the action of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) on the renal tubules and increases urine output. An increase in weight or an increase in urine specific gravity indicates that the SIADH is not corrected. Peripheral edema does not occur with SIADH. A sudden weight gain without edema is a common clinical manifestation of this disorder.

After receiving change-of-shift report about the following four patients, which patient should the nurse assess first? a. A 31-yr-old female patient with Cushing syndrome and a blood glucose level of 244 mg/dL b. A 70-yr-old female patient taking levothyroxine (Synthroid) who has an irregular pulse of 134 c. A 53-yr-old male patient who has Addison's disease and is due for a prescribed dose of hydrocortisone (Solu-Cortef). d. A 22-yr-old male patient admitted with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) who has a serum sodium level of 130 mEq/L

ANS: B Initiation of thyroid replacement in older adults may cause angina and cardiac dysrhythmias. The patient's high pulse rate needs rapid investigation by the nurse to assess for and intervene with any cardiac problems. The other patients also require nursing assessment and/or actions but are not at risk for life-threatening complications.

A 56-yr-old patient who is disoriented and reports a headache and muscle cramps is hospitalized with possible syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). The nurse would expect the initial laboratory results to include a(n) a. elevated hematocrit. c. increased serum chloride. b. decreased serum sodium. d. low urine specific gravity.

ANS: B When water is retained, the serum sodium level will drop below normal, causing the clinical manifestations reported by the patient. The hematocrit will decrease because of the dilution caused by water retention. Urine will be more concentrated with a higher specific gravity. The serum chloride level will usually decrease along with the sodium level.

The nurse is caring for a patient following an adrenalectomy. The highest priority in the immediate postoperative period is to a. protect the patient's skin. c. balance fluids and electrolytes. b. monitor for signs of infection. d. prevent emotional disturbances.

ANS: C After adrenalectomy, the patient is at risk for circulatory instability caused by fluctuating hormone levels, and the focus of care is to assess and maintain fluid and electrolyte status through the use of IV fluids and corticosteroids. The other goals are also important for the patient but are not as immediately life threatening as the circulatory collapse that can occur with fluid and electrolyte disturbances.

An expected patient problem for a patient admitted to the hospital with symptoms of diabetes insipidus is a. excess fluid volume related to intake greater than output. b. impaired gas exchange related to fluid retention in lungs. c. sleep pattern disturbance related to frequent waking to void. d. risk for impaired skin integrity related to generalized edema.

ANS: C Nocturia occurs as a result of the polyuria caused by diabetes insipidus. Edema, excess fluid volume, and fluid retention are not expected.

A patient is being admitted with a diagnosis of Cushing syndrome. Which findings will the nurse expect during the assessment? a. Chronically low blood pressure c. Purplish streaks on the abdomen b. Bronzed appearance of the skin d. Decreased axillary and pubic hair

ANS: C Purplish-red striae on the abdomen are a common clinical manifestation of Cushing syndrome. Hypotension and bronzed-appearing skin are manifestations of Addison's disease. Decreased axillary and pubic hair occur with androgen deficiency.

Which intervention will the nurse include in the plan of care for a patient with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH)? a. Encourage fluids to 2 to 3 L/day. b. Monitor for increasing peripheral edema. c. Offer the patient hard candies to suck on. d. Keep head of bed elevated to 30 degrees.

ANS: C Sucking on hard candies decreases thirst for a patient on fluid restriction. Patients with SIADH are on fluid restrictions of 800 to 1000 mL/day. Peripheral edema is not seen with SIADH. The head of the bed is elevated no more than 10 degrees to increase left atrial filling pressure and decrease antidiuretic hormone (ADH) release.

Which information is most important for the nurse to communicate rapidly to the health care provider about a patient admitted with possible syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH)? a. The patient has a recent weight gain of 9 lb. b. The patient complains of dyspnea with activity. c. The patient has a urine specific gravity of 1.025. d. The patient has a serum sodium level of 118 mEq/L.

ANS: D A serum sodium of less than 120 mEq/L increases the risk for complications such as seizures and needs rapid correction. The other data are not unusual for a patient with SIADH and do not indicate the need for rapid action.

Which finding by the nurse when assessing a patient with a large pituitary adenoma is most important to report to the health care provider? a. Changes in visual field c. Blood glucose 150 mg/dL b. Milk leaking from breasts d. Nausea and projectile vomiting

ANS: D Nausea and projectile vomiting may indicate increased intracranial pressure, which will require rapid actions for diagnosis and treatment. Changes in the visual field, elevated blood glucose, and galactorrhea are common with pituitary adenoma, but these do not require rapid action to prevent life-threatening complications.

Which assessment finding of a 42-yr-old patient who had a bilateral adrenalectomy requires the most rapid action by the nurse? a. The blood glucose is 192 mg/dL. b. The lungs have bibasilar crackles. c. The patient reports 6/10 incisional pain. d. The blood pressure (BP) is 88/50 mm Hg.

ANS: D The decreased BP indicates possible adrenal insufficiency. The nurse should immediately notify the health care provider so that corticosteroid medications can be administered. The nurse should also address the elevated glucose, incisional pain, and crackles with appropriate collaborative or nursing actions, but prevention and treatment of acute adrenal insufficiency are the priorities after adrenalectomy.

Where is the anti-diuretic hormone SECRETED in the body? • Hypothalamus • Thyroid • Posterior Pituitary gland • Anterior pituitary gland

Posterior Pituitary gland

1. Which of the following patients are at risk for developing Cushing's Syndrome? A. A patient with a tumor on the pituitary gland, which is causing too much ACTH to be secreted. B. A patient taking glucocorticoids for several weeks. C. A patient with a tuberculosis infection. D. A patient who is post-opt from an adrenalectomy.

The answer is option B. A patient taking glucocorticoids for several weeks. Remember that CUSHING'S DISEASE is caused by the pituitary gland producing too much ACTH which in turn increases cortisol. Cushing's SYNDROME is caused by medication therapy of glucocorticoids. An adrenalectomy is a treatment for Cushing's Disease (so this is not the answer in this case) and TB is a risk factor for developing ADDISON'S Disease.