The nurse is caring for a patient with Addison's disease in the emergency department.
The patient states that they were out in the sun gardening all day and is now lethargic, forgetful, and has a temperature of 101.5°F. What intervention will the nurse prioritize when caring for this patient?

Administer intravenous fluids with glucose.

Administer 1000 mg of acetaminophen orally.

Educate the patient about ordered hydrocortisone.

Explore options to minimize stress.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale

Administering intravenous fluids with glucose is essential for a patient with Addison's disease who has been exposed to stressors like prolonged sun exposure. Patients with Addison's disease may experience an adrenal crisis, characterized by low blood pressure, dehydration, and hypoglycemia. Intravenous fluids with glucose help to rehydrate the patient and restore blood sugar levels, which are critical in preventing shock and other severe complications.

Choice B rationale

Administering 1000 mg of acetaminophen orally is not the priority intervention for this patient. While it may help reduce fever, it does not address the underlying issues of Addison's disease, such as hypoglycemia and dehydration, which are more urgent. The primary concern should be stabilizing the patient's vital signs and electrolyte balance.

Choice C rationale

Educating the patient about ordered hydrocortisone is important for long-term management of Addison's disease, but it is not the immediate priority in an emergency situation. The patient requires prompt medical intervention to address the acute symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, such as lethargy and hypoglycemia.

Choice D rationale

Exploring options to minimize stress is relevant for managing Addison's disease in general, as stress can trigger an adrenal crisis. However, in the emergency department, the nurse's priority should be to stabilize the patient and manage acute symptoms. Stress management can be addressed once the patient's condition is stabilized.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Dosimeter badges are used for monitoring radiation exposure, not for handling chemotherapy. They are worn by healthcare workers working in areas with ionizing radiation to track their cumulative exposure and ensure it stays within safe limits.

Choice B rationale

Lead aprons are also used to protect against radiation exposure, not chemotherapy. They shield the body from ionizing radiation but do not provide protection from the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy agents.

Choice C rationale

Personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and gowns, is essential for safely handling chemotherapy drugs to prevent skin contact and inhalation of hazardous chemicals. This reduces the risk of exposure to these toxic agents, protecting both the nurse and the patient.

Choice D rationale

Chemotherapy waste should be disposed of in designated chemotherapy waste containers, not in standard sharps containers. These specialized containers ensure that hazardous waste is handled according to safety regulations, reducing the risk of environmental contamination and exposure.

A. Administer filgrastim (granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF)) as ordered. B. Keep the patient's central line insertion site clean and open to air. C. Educate the patient and family about food safety and hygiene. D. Provide a high-protein, high-calorie diet.

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Administering filgrastim (G-CSF) as ordered is crucial for patients with a low ANC. Filgrastim stimulates the production of neutrophils in the bone marrow, helping to reduce the risk of infections. For a patient with an ANC of 500/mm³, which indicates severe neutropenia, this intervention can significantly enhance the immune response and decrease susceptibility to infections.

Choice B rationale

Keeping the patient's central line insertion site clean and open to air is incorrect and could increase the risk of infection. Central line sites must be covered with a sterile dressing to prevent bacterial contamination and infection. Open exposure to air can introduce pathogens, especially in a patient with neutropenia.

Choice C rationale

Educating the patient and family about food safety and hygiene is essential for preventing infections in patients with neutropenia. Proper food handling and hygiene practices reduce the risk of bacterial and other infections. This education can help patients and their families implement measures to protect the patient from potential sources of infection.

Choice D rationale

Providing a high-protein, high-calorie diet is appropriate for supporting the patient's overall health and recovery. High-protein and high-calorie foods support the body's immune function, repair tissues, and maintain energy levels. Proper nutrition is vital for patients with leukemia to help them cope with the demands of their illness and treatment.

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The nurse is caring for a patient with Addison's disease in the emergency department.The patient states that they were out in the sun gardening all day and is now lethargic, forgetful, and has a temperature of 101.5°F. What intervention will the nurse prioritize when caring for this patient?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse manager is orienting a new nurse to the oncology unit.What will the nurse manager teach about best practices for safe handling and administration of chemotherapy?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse is caring for a patient with leukemia who has an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of 500/mm³. What interventions will the nurse include in the plan of care for this patient related to this finding? Select All That Apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

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The nurse is caring for a patient with Addison's disease in the emergency department.
The patient states that they were out in the sun gardening all day and is now lethargic, forgetful, and has a temperature of 101.5°F. What intervention will the nurse prioritize when caring for this patient?