ATI RN
Endocrine System Nursing Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The small intestine runs from the stomach to the large intestine. It has three parts. Starting at the stomach, in which order do they occur?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct order is D: Duodenum, jejunum, ileum. The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine connected to the stomach for digestion. Next is the jejunum, where most of the nutrients are absorbed. Lastly, the ileum completes the absorption process before reaching the large intestine. Choice A is incorrect as it has the parts in the wrong order. Choice B also has the parts in the wrong order. Choice C has the duodenum and ileum in the correct position but switches the jejunum and ileum.
Question 2 of 5
Common nonspecific manifestations that may alert the nurse to endocrine dysfunction include
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is C) weight loss, fatigue, and depression. These nonspecific manifestations can alert a nurse to endocrine dysfunction because they are commonly associated with various endocrine disorders such as thyroid disorders, adrenal insufficiency, or diabetes. Weight loss can be a sign of hyperthyroidism or adrenal insufficiency, where the body is breaking down nutrients faster than usual. Fatigue is a common symptom of many endocrine disorders due to hormonal imbalances affecting energy levels. Depression can be linked to thyroid disorders or hormonal imbalances affecting mood regulation. Option A) goiter and alopecia are more specific to thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, rather than nonspecific manifestations that could signal various endocrine issues. Option B) exophthalmos and tremors are more indicative of hyperthyroidism specifically, rather than general nonspecific signs of endocrine dysfunction. Option D) polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia are classic symptoms of diabetes mellitus, indicating hyperglycemia, rather than nonspecific manifestations that can point to a range of endocrine disorders. Educationally, understanding these common nonspecific manifestations is crucial for nurses to recognize early signs of endocrine dysfunction, initiate appropriate assessments, and collaborate with healthcare providers for timely interventions and management. Early detection can lead to better outcomes for patients with endocrine disorders.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse determines that a patient with a 2-hour OGTT of 152 mg/dL has
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) impaired glucose tolerance. Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) is diagnosed when the 2-hour Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) result falls between 140-199 mg/dL. This indicates that the patient's blood sugar levels are elevated after consuming a glucose load, but not high enough to meet the criteria for diabetes. Option A) diabetes is not the correct answer because a 2-hour OGTT of 152 mg/dL does not meet the diagnostic criteria for diabetes (200 mg/dL or above). Option B) impaired fasting glucose refers to elevated fasting blood sugar levels, not the result of an OGTT. Option C) elevated A1C is a marker for long-term blood glucose control and is not directly related to the OGTT result. In an educational context, understanding the diagnostic criteria for diabetes and its precursor states like impaired glucose tolerance is crucial for nurses caring for patients at risk for or with diabetes. By knowing the specific values that indicate different glucose abnormalities, nurses can provide appropriate education, monitoring, and support to help patients manage their condition effectively.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse assesses the diabetic patient's technique of self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) 3 months after initial instruction. Which error in the performance of SMBG noted by the nurse requires intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) Cleaning the puncture site with alcohol before the puncture. This error requires intervention because using alcohol to clean the puncture site can falsely elevate the blood glucose reading, leading to inaccurate results and potentially incorrect insulin dosing. Option A is incorrect because checking blood glucose before and after exercising is a good practice to monitor the impact of physical activity on blood sugar levels. Option B is incorrect because puncturing the finger on the side of the finger pad is a correct technique to minimize pain and discomfort. Option D is incorrect because holding the hand down for a few minutes before the puncture can improve blood flow to the finger, making it easier to obtain an adequate blood sample. Educational Context: It's essential for diabetic patients to perform SMBG accurately to manage their condition effectively. Teaching correct techniques, such as proper hand hygiene instead of using alcohol wipes, ensures accurate results and appropriate treatment decisions. Providing ongoing education and reinforcement of correct practices is crucial for optimal diabetes management.
Question 5 of 5
What findings are commonly found in a patient with a prolactinoma?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In a patient with a prolactinoma, which is a benign tumor of the pituitary gland that produces excess prolactin, the most common findings include gynecomastia in men. The rationale for this is that prolactin inhibits the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), leading to decreased levels of testosterone in men, which can result in the development of breast tissue (gynecomastia). Option B, profuse menstruation in women, is incorrect because prolactinomas typically cause irregular or absent menstruation due to the suppression of gonadotropin hormones. Option C, excess FSH and LH, is also incorrect because prolactinomas do not directly affect the levels of these hormones. Option D, signs of increased intracranial pressure, including headache, nausea, and vomiting, is more commonly associated with other types of pituitary tumors, such as craniopharyngiomas or pituitary adenomas that cause mass effect. In an educational context, understanding the clinical manifestations of prolactinomas is crucial for nurses caring for patients with endocrine disorders. Recognizing these signs and symptoms can help in early detection, appropriate management, and improved patient outcomes. Nurses play a vital role in educating patients about their condition, treatment options, and potential complications, making it essential for them to have a comprehensive understanding of endocrine disorders like prolactinomas.