The nurse has administered prescribed IV mannitol (Osmitrol) to an unconscious patient. Which parameter should the nurse monitor to determine the medication's effectiveness?
a. Blood pressure
b. Oxygen saturation
c. Intracranial pressure
d. Hemoglobin and hematocrit
ANS: C
Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic and will reduce cerebral edema and intracranial pressure. It may initially reduce hematocrit and increase blood pressure, but these are not the best parameters for evaluation of the effectiveness of the drug. Oxygen saturation will not directly improve as a re-sult of mannitol administration.
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A hospital administrator is involved in contract negotiations with the nursing union leaders. To resolve issues, ____
a. Nurses should be assertive to make certain that their view predominates b. Both sides should strive to meet the interests of both parties c. The negotiator should use independent problem-solving skills d. The budget should dictate the conditions of the negotiation
The nurse is planning care for a preschool-age child diagnosed with meningitis. What should the nurse identify as a priority goal for this patient's care?
A) Inspect the teeth for obvious caries. B) Reduce the pain related to nuchal rigidity. C) Provide an opportunity for therapeutic play. D) Increase stimulation opportunities to prevent coma.
Which action is the nurse most likely to take to effectively manage time?
a. Prioritize goals. b. Arrive at the site early in the morning. c. Be available to others. d. Complete all tasks.
Mrs. Black, a 29-year-old patient who is pregnant, comes to the office with concerns about skin changes. As the health care provider, you know that some skin changes occur during pregnancy as a result of increased pigmentation, including:
A. café au lait spots. B. keratosis. C. linea nigra. D. lentigines.