A nurse is teaching a class on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Which statement, if made by the nurse, is not accurate?
It is an autoimmune disease
Most people survive the disease, but it can be fatal
Family history of SLE is not a risk factor for the disease
SLE is a chronic, progressive connective tissue disorder
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease where the immune system produces autoantibodies, such as anti-nuclear antibodies, that attack healthy tissues like joints, skin, kidneys, and other organs. This leads to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. B-cell hyperactivity and T-cell dysfunction drive this process, causing systemic effects. This statement is accurate, as autoimmunity defines SLE’s pathology, distinguishing it from non-autoimmune disorders.
Choice B reason: Most individuals with SLE survive due to improved treatments like immunosuppressive drugs, with over 90% surviving beyond 10 years. However, it can be fatal due to complications such as kidney failure, cardiovascular disease, or infections during severe flares. This statement is accurate, reflecting the disease’s manageable yet potentially lethal nature, especially with organ involvement.
Choice C reason: Family history is a known risk factor for SLE. Genetic predisposition, particularly HLA gene variants, increases susceptibility. First-degree relatives of SLE patients have a 5-10% higher risk of developing the disease compared to the general population. This statement is inaccurate, as genetics significantly influences SLE onset, making it a key risk factor.
Choice D reason: SLE is a chronic, progressive connective tissue disorder characterized by periods of flares and remission. It affects connective tissues like joints and skin, with progressive organ damage possible in severe cases. This statement is accurate, as SLE’s chronic nature and connective tissue involvement are central to its pathophysiology, often requiring long-term management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Metformin is safe for kidneys in patients with normal renal function but is excreted renally, requiring monitoring in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) can lead to metformin accumulation, increasing lactic acidosis risk. Regular renal function tests (e.g., creatinine, GFR) are needed, making this statement accurate.
Choice B reason: Metformin is not nephrotoxic; it does not directly damage kidneys. Its primary risk in renal impairment is lactic acidosis due to reduced clearance, not direct toxicity. This statement is inaccurate, as metformin is generally renal-safe when monitored appropriately in patients with adequate kidney function.
Choice C reason: Metformin does not increase kidney stone risk. It lowers blood glucose by reducing hepatic gluconeogenesis and improving insulin sensitivity, without altering urinary composition linked to stones. Kidney stones are more associated with conditions like hyperuricemia or dehydration, making this statement inaccurate for metformin’s effects.
Choice D reason: Metformin requires renal function monitoring, as it is cleared by the kidneys. In renal impairment, accumulation can cause lactic acidosis, a rare but serious complication. This statement is inaccurate, as monitoring (e.g., eGFR) is essential to ensure safe use, especially in patients with kidney disease risk.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: SGLT-2 inhibitors, like empagliflozin, block sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 in the proximal tubule, preventing glucose reabsorption. This increases urinary glucose excretion, lowering blood sugar in type 2 diabetes. The mechanism is insulin-independent, reducing hyperglycemia and promoting weight loss, making this statement accurate for their primary action.
Choice B reason: SGLT-2 inhibitors do not interact with transcription factors to improve insulin sensitivity. This describes metformin’s action via AMPK activation in liver and muscle. SGLT-2 inhibitors act renally, not on transcription factors, making this statement inaccurate as it misattributes their mechanism to a different drug class.
Choice C reason: Inhibiting hepatic glucose production and increasing insulin sensitivity is metformin’s mechanism, not SGLT-2 inhibitors. SGLT-2 inhibitors work renally to excrete glucose, not by altering hepatic gluconeogenesis or peripheral insulin sensitivity. This statement is inaccurate, as it describes a different antidiabetic drug’s action.
Choice D reason: Blocking ATP-sensitive K+ channels is the mechanism of sulfonylureas, like glipizide, which stimulate insulin secretion from beta cells. SGLT-2 inhibitors act on renal glucose reabsorption, not beta cell channels. This statement is inaccurate, as it incorrectly assigns a sulfonylurea mechanism to SGLT-2 inhibitors.
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.