You are reviewing a client’s morning laboratory results. Which of these results is of most concern?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Serum magnesium 0.8 mEq/L. The reason this result is of most concern is that magnesium plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including muscle and nerve function, regulation of blood sugar levels, and bone development. A low serum magnesium level can lead to serious complications such as arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and seizures. Therefore, prompt intervention is necessary to address this abnormality. When analyzing the other options: A) Serum potassium 5.2 mEq/L: While slightly elevated, this potassium level is within a normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and would not typically cause immediate concern. B) Serum sodium 134 mEq/L: This sodium level is within the normal range (135-145 mEq/L) and does not indicate any imminent issues. C) Serum calcium 10.6 mg/dL: This calcium level is slightly elevated, but hypercalcemia would usually present with more severe symptoms, making it less concerning than a critically low magnesium level. In an educational context, it is essential for healthcare professionals to understand the significance of abnormal laboratory results and prioritize their interpretation based on the potential impact on a patient's health. This question highlights the importance of recognizing the critical nature of certain electrolyte imbalances and the need for timely intervention to prevent adverse outcomes in patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this pharmacology-related question, the correct answer is B) 500 calories. This is because to lose 1 pound of body weight, a person needs to create a calorie deficit of approximately 3500 calories. Since Mr. Jones wants to lose 2 pounds per week, he would need to create a deficit of 7000 calories per week, which translates to 1000 calories per day. However, it is generally recommended not to exceed a weight loss of 2 pounds per week for health reasons. Therefore, reducing 500 calories per day would result in a safe and achievable weight loss goal for Mr. Jones. Option A) 300 calories is not sufficient to achieve the desired weight loss of 2 pounds per week. Option C) 1000 calories is actually the total weekly calorie deficit needed, not the daily deficit. Option D) 1200 calories is too aggressive and may not be sustainable or healthy for Mr. Jones in the long term. This question provides a practical application of pharmacological principles, as weight management often involves considerations of metabolic processes and energy balance. Understanding the relationship between calorie intake and weight loss is crucial for healthcare professionals when advising patients on lifestyle modifications to achieve their health goals.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In a multidisciplinary healthcare team, the role of the nurse is crucial in coordinating the actions of other team members. This is because nurses often have a holistic view of the patient's care plan and are in a unique position to communicate and collaborate with various healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care. Option A, prescribing treatment, is incorrect because nurses do not have the authority to prescribe medications or treatments independently. This is typically the responsibility of physicians or advanced practice nurses with prescriptive authority. Option B, arranging a posthospitalization rehabilitation program, is also incorrect as this task usually falls under the purview of case managers, social workers, or rehabilitation specialists who specialize in creating and implementing rehabilitation plans. Option C, determining appropriate physical exercises, is not the role of the nurse on a multidisciplinary team. While nurses may assist in implementing physical therapy plans, the primary responsibility for determining appropriate exercises lies with physical therapists or other rehabilitation specialists. Educationally, understanding the role of nurses in a multidisciplinary team is essential for nursing students and practicing nurses to effectively collaborate with other healthcare professionals, optimize patient outcomes, and provide holistic care. Effective communication and coordination among team members are critical components of successful interdisciplinary healthcare delivery.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology education, prioritizing teaching needs (Option C) is the most appropriate initial action when preparing a patient for self-care before discharge. This approach ensures that essential information is addressed first, focusing on key aspects that are crucial for the patient's well-being post-discharge. By prioritizing teaching needs, the nurse can tailor the educational content to address immediate concerns, such as medication administration, potential side effects, and warning signs to watch for after leaving the healthcare setting. Developing a 1-hour teaching session (Option A) might overwhelm the patient with excessive information, leading to poor retention and understanding. Giving the patient a booklet to read (Option B) may not be effective if the patient has limited literacy skills or prefers verbal communication. Selecting specific teaching techniques (Option D) without first identifying the patient's most critical learning needs could result in missed opportunities to address vital information. In an educational context, prioritizing teaching needs aligns with best practices in patient education, promoting effective communication, individualized care, and improved patient outcomes. It ensures that the patient receives essential information in a structured and manageable manner, setting the foundation for successful self-care management post-discharge.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pharmacology, when assessing an elderly patient like Mrs. West, particular attention should be given to fluid and electrolyte balance. This is crucial because as people age, their bodies undergo physiological changes that can affect how medications are metabolized and excreted. Elderly patients are at a higher risk for dehydration and electrolyte imbalances due to factors like decreased kidney function and changes in thirst perception. Monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance is essential to prevent adverse drug reactions and ensure the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions. Regarding the other options: - Mental and emotional health status, while important, may not be directly impacted by age in the context of pharmacological assessment. - Respiratory function is vital in some cases, but it is not the primary focus when considering age-related changes and pharmacology. - Drug allergies should always be assessed, regardless of age, but specific attention to fluid and electrolyte balance is more pertinent in the elderly due to age-related physiological changes. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of considering age-related factors in pharmacological assessments and the need for targeted monitoring to ensure safe and effective medication management in elderly patients. Understanding these nuances is critical for healthcare professionals to provide optimal care to older adults.