A nurse is providing education to a patient about managing hypertension. Which of the following statements by the patient indicates the need for further education?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because stopping medication once blood pressure returns to normal can lead to a relapse of hypertension. Step 1: Educate the patient that hypertension is a chronic condition requiring long-term management. Step 2: Explain the importance of continuing medication even when blood pressure is controlled. Step 3: Emphasize the risks of stopping medication abruptly. Other choices are incorrect because they promote positive behaviors for hypertension management: A: Monitoring blood pressure is essential. B: Taking medication consistently is crucial. C: Avoiding high-sodium foods helps control blood pressure.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hyperkalemia. In chronic kidney disease, the kidneys are unable to effectively excrete potassium, leading to elevated levels in the blood. This can result in life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Monitoring for hyperkalemia is crucial in managing patients with kidney disease. Other choices are incorrect because: B: Hypoglycemia is not typically associated with chronic kidney disease. C: Hypotension may occur in kidney disease but is not directly related to decreased renal function. D: Hypercalcemia is not a common complication of decreased renal function; in fact, kidney disease can lead to low levels of calcium.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Kidney function tests. In diabetic nephropathy, the kidneys are affected, leading to impaired kidney function. Monitoring kidney function tests such as serum creatinine and glomerular filtration rate is crucial to assess the progression of the disease and guide treatment. Blood pressure measurement (B) is important in managing diabetic nephropathy but does not directly assess kidney function. Blood glucose levels (C) are essential in managing diabetes overall but do not specifically address nephropathy. Urine output monitoring (D) is important for assessing kidney function but does not provide as comprehensive information as kidney function tests.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Encouraging early ambulation. Early ambulation helps prevent complications such as blood clots, pneumonia, and muscle weakness. It improves circulation, lung function, and overall recovery. Administering pain medication regularly (A) is important but not the top priority. Deep breathing exercises (B) are beneficial but not as crucial as early ambulation post-hip replacement. Monitoring for signs of infection (C) is essential but not the top priority for preventing complications in this case.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Limit phosphorus and potassium intake. Patients with chronic kidney disease often have difficulty excreting phosphorus and potassium, leading to potential complications. Limiting phosphorus and potassium intake can help prevent further kidney damage and maintain electrolyte balance. Prioritizing this dietary recommendation is crucial for managing the progression of the disease. Incorrect choices: A: Increasing protein intake can put additional strain on the kidneys and may lead to further deterioration of kidney function. B: Increasing potassium intake can be dangerous for patients with chronic kidney disease as they may have difficulty regulating potassium levels. D: Decreasing fluid intake may be necessary in some cases, but it is not the priority in terms of managing chronic kidney disease.