True or false: the risk factors for spinal epidural abscesses include epidural catheters, diabetes mellitus, alcoholism, HIV infection, bacteremia, and intravenous drug use.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: This statement is true as all listed factors (epidural catheters, diabetes mellitus, alcoholism, HIV infection, bacteremia, and IV drug use) are well-documented risk factors for spinal epidural abscesses due to their association with infection or immune compromise.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Cholesterol crystals in synovial fluid are a normal finding in chronic joint effusions, such as in rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, rather than a specific disease like hyperlipidemia.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Preload reduces glomerular filtration resulting in fluid conservation, or edema. Increased preload may lead to an increased, not decreased, heart rate. Increased preload may lead to shortness of breath and an increased respiratory rate. Increased preload may lead to fatigue, not excitability, as the heart works harder to circulate blood.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: ACE inhibitors (D) reduce workload, promote sodium excretion, and commonly cause a cough due to bradykinin buildup.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The ACE inhibitors cause retention of potassium by the kidney, so hyperkalemia is a possible adverse effect. The other teaching by the new RN is appropriate for a patient with newly diagnosed hypertension who has just started therapy with enalapril.