The client with a history of heart failure is taking furosemide (Lasix). Which laboratory result should the nurse monitor closely?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Serum potassium. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can cause potassium loss, leading to hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can exacerbate cardiac arrhythmias in patients with heart failure. Monitoring serum potassium levels is crucial to prevent complications. Incorrect choices: A: Serum sodium - Furosemide may cause hyponatremia, but it is less critical compared to hypokalemia in a client with heart failure. C: Serum calcium - Furosemide does not directly affect calcium levels significantly in most cases. D: Serum magnesium - While furosemide can cause hypomagnesemia, monitoring potassium is more essential in this scenario due to its impact on cardiac function.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Correct Answer: D Rationale: 1. Levothyroxine is a lifelong medication for hypothyroidism. 2. Stopping medication prematurely can lead to symptom relapse. 3. Symptoms improving doesn't indicate the underlying condition is resolved. 4. Regular monitoring and dose adjustments are crucial. 5. Choice D shows misunderstanding of treatment duration and necessity. Summary: A: Correct, taking in the morning maximizes absorption. B: Correct, monitoring is necessary for dose adjustments. C: Correct, weight loss can affect thyroid hormone levels. D: Incorrect, as stopping medication prematurely is not advised.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Asterixis. Hepatic encephalopathy is a neuropsychiatric syndrome associated with liver dysfunction. Asterixis, also known as liver flap, is a key clinical manifestation characterized by a flapping tremor of the hands when extended. This occurs due to impaired ammonia metabolism in the liver leading to neurotoxicity. Jaundice (B) is a sign of liver dysfunction but not specific to hepatic encephalopathy. Ascites (C) is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, common in liver cirrhosis but not indicative of hepatic encephalopathy. Splenomegaly (D) is enlargement of the spleen, which can occur in cirrhosis but is not a direct sign of hepatic encephalopathy.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Seizures. Seizures in a patient with suspected meningitis indicate increased intracranial pressure, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention to prevent brain damage or herniation. Headache (A), fever (B), and nuchal rigidity (C) are common symptoms of meningitis but do not pose an immediate threat to life like seizures do. Addressing the seizures first is crucial to prevent further complications and ensure the patient's safety.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increase your intake of high-calcium foods. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by low bone density, and calcium is essential for bone health. Increasing calcium intake can help strengthen bones and prevent further bone loss. Foods high in calcium, such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods, are beneficial for individuals with osteoporosis. Summary of other choices: B: Limiting intake of vitamin D-rich foods is not advised, as vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and bone health. C: Avoiding foods high in phosphorus is not necessary, as phosphorus is also important for bone health and overall body function. D: Increasing intake of high-sodium foods is not recommended, as high sodium intake can lead to calcium loss from the bones, worsening osteoporosis.