Hurst NCLEX Test Taking Strategy Questions with Rationale 06 2011

1. The nurse is providing post-operative care to a craniotomy client. Diabetes insipidus is suspected when the client’s urine output suddenly increases significantly. Which action takes highest priority? o 1. Monitoring urine output o 2. Checking pulse o 3. Checking blood pressure o 4. Assessing level of consciousness Rationale: 3. Correct: This is the best answer because we are “worried” this client is going into SHOCK. So.....you better be checking a BP. This is a time where checking the BP is appropriate. If we “assume the worst” I better check a blood pressure. It could have dropped out the bottom. 1. Incorrect: Continuing to monitor U/O is important but I need to find out if they are already shocky. 2. Incorrect: Checking the pulse is a good thing, but, not as important as checking the BP. 4. Incorrect: If my client is going into shock the highest priority is to assess the BP. 2. The client is being treated for fluid volume deficit. Which is an expected outcome of successful treatment? o 1. Resolution of orthostatic hypotension o 2. Maintenance of weight loss o 3. Compliance with sodium restricted diet o 4. Maintenance of serum Na above 148 mEq Rationale: 1. Correct: When you are in a fluid volume deficit your blood pressure goes down when you stand up and it’s called orthostatic hypotension. Successful treatment would resolve this. 2. Incorrect: When I have lost a lot of volume, my weight goes down, so if I am better, my weight should go up. 3. Incorrect: Who needs to adhere to dietary sodium restrictions? People who are in fluid volume excess. 4. Incorrect: If your serum sodium is above 148, hypernatremia is the same thing as dehydration, so this means that you are still sick. Day 4