Which patient information is most important for the nurse to monitor when evaluating the effectiveness of deferoxamine (Desferal) for a patient with hemochromatosis?
a. Skin color
b. Hematocrit
c. Liver function
d. Serum iron level
ANS: D
Because iron chelating agents are used to lower serum iron levels, the most useful information will be the patient's iron level. The other parameters will also be monitored, but are not the most important to monitor when determining the effectiveness of deferoxamine.
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The nurse performs a Snellen chart examination on a patient. What Snellen chart finding would indicate normal vision for the patient?
a. Both eyes 20/20 b. Left eye 20/200 c. Left eye 80/20 d. Right eye 200/20
A patient with cancer of the esophagus has been receiving radiation therapy. The nurse realizes that this patient should be assessed for
a. aspiration from fistula formation. b. hemorrhage. c. incompetence of the suture line. d. dumping syndrome.
A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is admitted involuntarily during a manic phase. Lithium 300 mg PO t.i.d. is prescribed. The patient refuses the morning dose. What are the nurse's best actions? Select all that apply
a. Get the prescription changed to an elixir, and administer it in juice. b. Assemble adequate help to force the patient to take the medication. c. Educate the patient about the importance of lithium in stabilizing the mood. d. Allow the patient to refuse the medication, and document the patient's comments. e. Inform the patient that unit privileges are contingent on taking prescribed medications.
On which of the following health promotion and wellness activities would it be appropriate for a nurse to instruct a young adult?
a. Monthly breast self-examination b. Annual dilated retinal eye examinations c. Keeping socially active d. Prevention of accidental poisoning