ATI RN
Exam Questions on Endocrine System Questions
Question 1 of 5
Ingestion takes place in the?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Mouth. Ingestion is the process of taking food or liquid into the body through the mouth. The mouth is responsible for chewing and breaking down food into smaller pieces, mixing it with saliva to start the digestion process. The stomach (A), small intestine (B), and large intestine (D) are not where ingestion takes place; they are involved in further digestion, absorption, and processing of nutrients. The mouth is the initial site of digestion and the starting point of the digestive process.
Question 2 of 5
A patient has a low serum T3 level. The health care provider orders measurement of the TSH level. If the TSH level is elevated, what does this indicate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is option A) The cause of the low T3 level is most likely primary hypothyroidism. When a patient presents with a low serum T3 level and an elevated TSH level, it indicates that the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormones despite increased stimulation from the pituitary gland. This scenario is consistent with primary hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland itself is dysfunctional, leading to decreased T3 levels and subsequent elevation of TSH as the body tries to compensate by increasing thyroid hormone production. Option B is incorrect because in a functioning negative feedback system, elevated TSH levels would indicate an attempt to stimulate the thyroid gland, not a failure to stimulate the anterior pituitary gland. Option C is incorrect as an underactive thyroid gland would typically result in elevated TSH levels due to lack of negative feedback inhibition. Option D is incorrect as a tumor on the anterior pituitary gland would lead to excessive production of TSH, not low T3 levels. Educational Context: Understanding the relationship between TSH and T3 levels is crucial in diagnosing thyroid disorders. This question highlights the importance of interpreting hormone levels in the context of their physiological roles and feedback mechanisms. By grasping this concept, healthcare providers can accurately diagnose and manage thyroid conditions, ensuring optimal patient care.
Question 3 of 5
A patient with type 1 diabetes uses 20 U of 70/30 neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH/regular) in the morning and at 6:00 pm. When teaching the patient about this regimen, what should the nurse emphasize?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, option C is the correct answer. When teaching a patient with type 1 diabetes about using a combination of NPH and regular insulin, emphasizing a set meal pattern with a bedtime snack is crucial to prevent hypoglycemia. This is because NPH insulin has a peak action around 4-12 hours after administration, making the risk of hypoglycemia higher during the night. A bedtime snack helps maintain blood sugar levels until morning. Option A is incorrect because hypoglycemia is more likely to occur during the night or early morning due to the peak action of NPH insulin. Option B is incorrect because while NPH insulin provides coverage for a longer duration, it still has a peak action that needs to be considered. Option D is incorrect because premeal glucose checks are typically more important for rapid-acting insulins, not NPH insulin. In an educational context, it is essential for nurses to teach patients with diabetes about the specific action profiles of different insulins and how to adjust their meal patterns and insulin doses accordingly to maintain optimal blood sugar control and prevent complications like hypoglycemia. This knowledge empowers patients to manage their condition effectively and improve their quality of life.
Question 4 of 5
Priority Decision: A patient with diabetes calls the clinic because she is experiencing nausea and flu-like symptoms. Which advice from the nurse will be the best for this patient?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, option D, "Monitor the blood glucose every 1 to 2 hours and call if it rises over 150 mg/dL (8.3 mmol/L)," is the best advice for the patient with diabetes experiencing nausea and flu-like symptoms. This is the correct answer because it aligns with the principles of diabetic management. Monitoring blood glucose levels closely during illness is crucial as illnesses can impact blood sugar levels. In this situation, hyperglycemia could exacerbate the patient's symptoms and lead to complications. By monitoring and acting on blood glucose levels above 150 mg/dL, the patient can prevent potential health risks. Option A, "Administer the usual insulin dosage," is incorrect because during illness, the body's insulin needs may change, and administering the usual dosage without monitoring can be dangerous. Option B, "Hold fluid intake until the nausea subsides," is incorrect as staying hydrated is essential, especially in diabetes, to prevent dehydration and maintain overall health. Option C, "Come to the clinic immediately for evaluation and treatment," while important in some cases, may not be necessary as the first step. Monitoring blood glucose levels allows for immediate action if levels are elevated, and the patient may not need to rush to the clinic if they can manage their condition at home with proper guidance. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of proactive diabetes management during illness. It emphasizes the need for patients to monitor their blood glucose levels closely and take appropriate actions based on monitoring results to prevent complications. It also reinforces the idea that individualized care is essential in managing chronic conditions like diabetes, especially during acute situations.
Question 5 of 5
During care of the patient with SIADH, what should the nurse do?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is A) Monitor neurologic status at least every 2 hours. In Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH), there is an excess of ADH leading to water retention and dilutional hyponatremia. Monitoring neurologic status is crucial as hyponatremia can lead to neurological complications such as confusion, seizures, and coma. Checking neurologic status every 2 hours allows for early detection of any neurological changes, ensuring prompt intervention. Option B) is incorrect because in SIADH, where there is water retention, restricting sodium intake can further worsen hyponatremia. Option C) is incorrect as keeping the head of the bed elevated does not prevent ADH release. Option D) is incorrect as notifying the healthcare provider about a decrease in blood pressure is not directly related to managing SIADH. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind monitoring neurologic status in SIADH reinforces the importance of frequent assessment to prevent serious complications associated with electrolyte imbalances. Nurses need to be vigilant in assessing and monitoring patients with endocrine disorders like SIADH to provide safe and effective care.