ATI Learning System PN Medical Surgical Final Quizlet

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Liver function tests. Patients on atorvastatin should have their liver function tests monitored periodically to detect any potential liver damage. Atorvastatin, a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels, can rarely cause liver enzyme abnormalities, so regular monitoring is essential to identify any adverse effects early on.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The rapid, deep (Kussmaul) respirations in a patient with diabetic ketoacidosis indicate a metabolic acidosis, necessitating correction with a saline bolus to prevent hypovolemia, followed by insulin administration to facilitate glucose re-entry into cells. Oxygen therapy is not warranted as the increased respiratory rate is not due to hypoxemia but is compensatory in response to acidosis. Encouraging slow breathing or administering lorazepam would be inappropriate as they can worsen the acidosis by suppressing the compensatory respiratory effort.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The High Fowler's position is the most appropriate position for a patient with COPD experiencing severe dyspnea. This position helps improve lung expansion and reduce dyspnea by allowing the diaphragm to move more freely and increasing the efficiency of breathing. It also helps reduce the work of breathing and enhances oxygenation in patients with COPD.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A low-protein diet is recommended for clients with hepatic encephalopathy to reduce ammonia levels. Ammonia, a byproduct of protein metabolism, can accumulate in the blood due to impaired liver function. Elevated ammonia levels can lead to worsening hepatic encephalopathy, a condition characterized by cognitive and neurological disturbances. Therefore, by limiting protein intake, the production of ammonia is reduced, thereby helping to manage hepatic encephalopathy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Patients prescribed statin medications should be educated to report any muscle pain or weakness to their healthcare provider promptly. Muscle pain or weakness could be a sign of rhabdomyolysis, a serious side effect associated with statin use that requires medical attention.