A nurse is concerned about renal function in an 84-year-old client who is taking several medications. What is a priority for the nurse to assess?
Serum creatinine
Troponin levels
Specific gravity
Sodium levels
The Correct Answer is C
A) Serum creatinine is an important marker of renal function, but specific gravity is more directly related to urine concentration and kidney function.
B) Troponin levels are primarily associated with cardiac function, not renal function.
C) Assessing specific gravity helps evaluate the kidney's ability to concentrate urine and is a valuable indicator of renal function.
D) Sodium levels can be important in assessing electrolyte balance but are not the primary indicator of renal function.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
a) Vitamin D levels may be affected by long-term glucocorticoid use, but the described symptoms are more indicative of potential glucocorticoid-related side effects, such as Cushingoid features, which warrant liver function tests.
b) Liver function tests are appropriate to assess the impact of long-term glucocorticoid use on the liver, as these medications can affect liver function.
c) Serum electrolytes are important to monitor, but the specific symptoms mentioned (full cheeks, hump of fat) are not typically associated with electrolyte imbalances.
d) A tuberculin skin test is unrelated to the observed symptoms and is not typically ordered based on the physical features described.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
a) Monitoring for Cushing's symptoms is important, but it is not a statement indicating a good understanding of the withdrawal process from glucocorticoids.
b) Telling the client to never take steroids again is an overly generalized statement and does not reflect a nuanced understanding of the medication.
c) Not attempting to taper off the medication without consulting the provider is the correct approach. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to adrenal insufficiency, and the tapering schedule should be individualized.
d) Reducing the dose by half each day without proper guidance may result in withdrawal symptoms and is not a recommended strategy.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.