A patient is taking enalapril [Vasotec]. The nurse understands that patients taking this type of drug for heart failure need to be monitored carefully for:
a. hypernatremia.
b. hypertension.
c. hyperkalemia.
d. hypokalemia.
C
One of the principal effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors is hyperkalemia, which is due to decreased aldosterone release arising from blockage of angiotensin II. There is no indication that careful monitoring of sodium for increased levels is indicated. Vasotec is indi-cated for heart failure, not hypertension. The drug therapy should be monitored to ascertain its effectiveness, but hyperkalemia is the main concern. Hyperkalemia, not hypokalemia, is a concern because of the decreased aldosterone release that occurs with blockage of angiotensin II.
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The student nurse asks the provider if she will prescribe an indwelling urinary catheter for a hospitalized patient who is incontinent. The provider explains that catheters should be utilized only when absolutely necessary because:
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1. height 2. weight 3. blood pressure 4. cranial circumference
A nurse administrator is educating her new nursing staff about the use of health care by rural residents. Which statement is she most likely to include in her presentation?
a. "Rural adults are less likely to identify a particular medical provider.". b. "Rural adults are more likely to see general practitioners and advanced practice nurses than their urban counterparts.". c. "Rural adults are more likely to seek medical treatment from a specialist than those in urban areas.". d. "Rural adults usually have to travel an average of 60 minutes to see a provider.".
The nurse is teaching at a health promotion fair held in one of the local community centers when one of the participants asks, "What are the most important factors leading to obesity?" Which statement is the nurse's best response?
1. "Type of food and beverages consumed." 2. "Chronic conditions such as diabetes." 3. "Physical activity and caloric intake." 4. "Water and fluid retention."