A patient has been receiving intravenous heparin. When laboratory tests are drawn, the nurse has difficulty

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient is displaying signs and symptoms that are suggestive of potential heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a serious adverse effect of heparin therapy. Bloody stools and abdominal pain can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which can occur as a complication of heparin therapy. Elevated partial thromboplastin time (PTT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) can also be seen in the setting of HIT.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Regular insulin is the only type of insulin that can be given intravenously (IV) due to its short onset of action. When administered IV, regular insulin can act quickly to control blood sugar levels in emergency situations such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperglycemic crises. Other types of insulin, such as NPH, long-acting, or rapid-acting insulins, are not suitable for IV administration as they have different pharmacokinetic properties and are designed for subcutaneous use.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Actifed Plus includes acetaminophen, an analgesic, unlike others (choices A, B, C). D distinguishes it, making it correct.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should suggest the patient mix the cholestyramine powder with food or fruit, or at least 4 to 6 ounces of fluid. Cholestyramine is a medication that works by binding with bile acids in the intestine, which requires mixing the powder with a sufficient amount of fluid to ensure proper administration. Mixing the powder with 4 to 6 ounces of fluid or food will help prevent clumping and ensure optimal effectiveness of the medication. Mixing it with a carbonated soda drink (option A) may not be ideal as the effervescence could affect the medication's stability. Adding the powder to any liquid and stirring vigorously (option B) may not effectively dissolve the powder. Taking the powder dry followed by a glass of water (option E) may also not be as effective in ensuring proper administration as when mixed with food or fluid.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The therapeutic use of Digoxin is primarily to increase cardiac output and slow down the heart rate. Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that works by increasing the force of the heart's contractions, thereby improving cardiac output in conditions such as heart failure. Additionally, it also helps to slow down the heart rate by affecting the electrical conduction system of the heart. This combination of effects makes Digoxin valuable in treating conditions like heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and atrial flutter.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Orlistat works within the gastrointestinal tract by inhibiting pancreatic lipase, reducing fat absorption directly without systemic absorption.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The bacterial glycocalyx is a sticky, gelatinous substance that surrounds the bacterial cell wall. It helps protect the bacteria from antibiotic and immunologic destruction by forming a barrier that prevents antibiotics and immune cells from effectively reaching and eliminating the bacterial infection. This protection allows the bacteria to persist and cause persistent infections, even when antibiotics are administered through the catheter.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Carbamazepine carries teratogenic risks (e.g., neural tube defects), making it unsafe in pregnancy. Digoxin is safe, used for fetal arrhythmias or maternal heart conditions, with no major congenital risks, a true statement. Streptomycin causes ototoxicity in the fetus, and methotrexate, a folate antagonist, is highly teratogenic, both unsafe. Propylthiouracil is also safe but not listed here correctly per the key. Digoxin's safety profile in pregnancy makes it a preferred option for cardiac issues, balancing maternal and fetal needs.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: NREM stage 3, deep sleep, restores energy-lack causes fatigue and mood dips, per sleep physiology. Stage 1 is lightest, anxiety-sensitive. Dreaming is REM, not here-irritability ties to REM loss. Paradoxical is REM. Deep sleep's role explains EEG focus, answering accurately.