A patient with a history of heart failure is prescribed spironolactone. Which electrolyte imbalance is the patient at risk for developing with spironolactone therapy?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic commonly used in the management of heart failure. One of the significant side effects of spironolactone is hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the bloodstream. Spironolactone works by blocking the action of aldosterone, a hormone that regulates potassium and sodium balance in the body. By inhibiting aldosterone, spironolactone reduces potassium excretion in the urine, leading to potential accumulation of potassium in the body.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The stomach is responsible for producing hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor. Hydrochloric acid helps in the breakdown of proteins during digestion, while intrinsic factor aids in the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine. These two components are crucial for the proper functioning of the digestive system, particularly in breaking down food and absorbing essential nutrients. The liver is involved in bile production, the pancreas in the production of digestive enzymes, and the small intestine in nutrient absorption, but the specific functions related to hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor are primarily attributed to the stomach.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient's sudden onset of severe vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and nystagmus following a recent upper respiratory tract infection is consistent with vestibular neuritis. Vestibular neuritis is characterized by acute onset vertigo, often severe, which is typically associated with nausea, vomiting, and nystagmus. The condition is thought to be caused by inflammation of the vestibular nerve, often viral in nature, which can occur following an upper respiratory tract infection. This inflammation leads to dysfunction of the vestibular system in the inner ear, resulting in the symptoms described. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), characterized by brief episodes of vertigo triggered by specific head movements, is less likely in this case given the sudden onset of symptoms not triggered by head movements. Meniere's disease is characterized by recurrent episodes of vertigo accompanied by hearing loss, tinnitus, and a feeling of fullness

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Among the given options, teratoma (dermoid cyst) is the most common type of ovarian tumor in women of reproductive age. Dermoid cysts are a type of ovarian teratoma that contains tissues derived from the ectoderm (skin), mesoderm (bone, muscle), and endoderm (mucous membranes). They are usually benign and can contain a variety of elements such as hair, teeth, bone, and sebaceous material. Serous cystadenomas and mucinous cystadenomas are more commonly seen in older women, whereas endometriomas are typically associated with endometriosis rather than being the most common ovarian tumor type in women of reproductive age.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Placing her hand over Marlene's shoulder and asking why the sad face is the best way for Nurse Myra to communicate her concern. This approach shows empathy and creates a safe space for Marlene to open up about her feelings. By using physical touch and showing genuine interest in Marlene's well-being, Nurse Myra can effectively address the situation and provide appropriate support or guidance as needed. Simply dismissing Marlene's feelings (option B and C) or resorting to religious advice (option A) may not effectively address the underlying cause of Marlene's sadness. It is important in situations like this to show empathy, compassion, and a willingness to listen in order to provide the best support for the individual in distress.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a postpartum client who experienced a perineal laceration and reports pain and discomfort during defecation is to recommend the use of stool softeners or laxatives. Perineal lacerations can lead to pain and discomfort during bowel movements due to the strain that passing stools may cause on the tender area. Stool softeners or laxatives can help soften the stool, making it easier and less painful for the client to have bowel movements. It is important to alleviate the discomfort and promote bowel regularity to prevent complications such as constipation, which can further exacerbate the pain and delay healing of the perineal laceration.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: While attending professional conventions, webinars, and symposiums are all valuable informal continuing education programs that can help nurses stay updated with the latest trends and developments in the field, doing research as an academic requirement is not typically considered an informal continuing education activity. Research is a formal process that involves structured methodologies and academic rigor. While research may be a valuable activity for professional growth, it is not usually classified under informal continuing education programs that nurses engage in to supplement their knowledge and skills.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The clinical presentation of severe lower abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding in a pregnant woman, along with cervical motion tenderness, unilateral adnexal tenderness, and an adnexal mass on the affected side, is highly concerning for an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. The presence of an adnexal mass and tenderness on one side is indicative of potential tubal involvement and can mimic symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease. Prompt evaluation and management are crucial in ectopic pregnancy to prevent life-threatening complications associated with rupture of the fallopian tube.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The appropriate initial management for a conscious patient experiencing a syncopal episode (fainting) is to provide reassurance and assist the patient to a lying position. This is important to ensure adequate blood flow to the brain and to prevent further injury in case the patient faints again. Elevating the legs above the level of the heart is not recommended as a routine intervention for syncope. Administering intravenous fluids rapidly is not usually needed in the initial management of syncope without signs of dehydration or significant bleeding. Administering oxygen via nasal cannula is not necessary for most cases of syncope unless there are specific indications such as signs of respiratory distress.