NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Predictor Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client with a history of bipolar disorder is prescribed lithium. Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor closely?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Lithium requires monitoring of serum lithium levels to ensure therapeutic range (0.6–1.2 mEq/L) and prevent toxicity. Sodium (
A), BUN (
B), and A1c (
D) are secondary.
Question 2 of 5
A female client has been recently diagnosed as bipolar. She has taken lithium for the past several weeks to control mania. What must be included in client education regarding lithium toxicity?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The client should maintain a normal diet including normal salt intake. A low-sodium diet can cause lithium retention, leading to toxicity. Lithium must be taken with meals because it is irritating to the gastric mucosa. Diarrhea, vomiting, or diaphoresis can cause dehydration, which will increase lithium blood levels. If these symptoms occur, the nurse should instruct the client to withhold lithium. Lithium is not to be taken with over-the-counter drugs without specific instruction. Some drugs raise lithium levels, whereas others lower lithium levels.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is teaching a client with a history of hypertension about dietary modifications. The nurse should tell the client to avoid:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Processed foods are high in sodium, which can exacerbate hypertension by increasing blood volume, so they should be avoided.
Question 4 of 5
Signs and symptoms of an allergy attack include which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Prolonged expiration occurs in allergy attacks due to constricted, edematous bronchial lumina, which impair air movement during exhalation.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following would indicate the need for further teaching for the client with COPD? The client verbalizes the need to:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Protein is vital for the maintenance of muscle to aid in breathing. A high-calorie diet using higher fat than carbohydrate content is given because clients are unable to breathe off the excess CO2 that is an end product of carbohydrate metabolism. Inadequate nutritional status, in particular, deficiencies in vitamins A and C, decreases resistance to infection. Milk does not make mucus thicker. It may coat the back of the throat and make it feel thicker. Rinsing the mouth with water after drinking milk will prevent this problem. Small, frequent meals minimize a fullness sensation and reduce pressure on the diaphragm. The work of breathing and SOB are also reduced.