ATI RN
Endocrine System Nursing Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following is not a similarity between hormones and neurotransmitters?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it states that none of the above choices are similarities between hormones and neurotransmitters. This is accurate as choices B, C, and D all highlight similarities between hormones and neurotransmitters. Choice B is correct as both are chemical messengers, choice C is correct because some hormones and neurotransmitters can be chemically identical, and choice D is correct because both produce molecules that act on receptors. Therefore, A is the correct choice as it states that there are no similarities between the two, which is not the case.
Question 2 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 3 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 4 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.
Question 5 of 5
As a precaution for vocal cord paralysis from damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerve during thyroidectomy surgery, what equipment should be in the room in case it is needed for this emergency situation?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is A) Tracheostomy tray. During a thyroidectomy surgery, there is a risk of damaging the recurrent laryngeal nerve, which can lead to vocal cord paralysis and airway compromise. In case of emergency situations like difficulty breathing due to vocal cord paralysis, having a tracheostomy tray readily available in the room is crucial. A tracheostomy tray contains the necessary equipment to perform an emergency tracheostomy, providing an alternative airway when upper airway obstruction occurs. Option B) IV calcium gluconate is used to manage hypocalcemia, a common complication after thyroidectomy due to inadvertent removal or damage to the parathyroid glands. While important for managing hypocalcemia, it is not directly related to managing an emergency airway situation caused by vocal cord paralysis. Option C) Oxygen equipment is important for respiratory support in various situations, but in the context of vocal cord paralysis leading to airway compromise, oxygen alone may not be sufficient to manage the emergency. A definitive airway intervention like a tracheostomy would be needed. Option D) Paper and pencil for communication may be useful for aiding communication with a patient who cannot speak but is not directly related to managing a compromised airway due to vocal cord paralysis. In an educational context, understanding the potential complications of thyroidectomy, such as damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerve and subsequent vocal cord paralysis, is crucial for nursing practice. Knowing the appropriate emergency equipment needed in such situations and being prepared to act swiftly can significantly impact patient outcomes and safety during and post-surgery. This question reinforces the importance of preparedness and quick decision-making in managing surgical complications.