Diabetes & DKA
What IV medication is given immediately for a patient with severe hypoglycemia and IV access?
Dextrose 50% IV
What should the nurse do if a blood bag appears cloudy with particles?
Return it to the blood bank
Which lab values indicate hypothyroidism?
High TSH and low Free T4
Which lab abnormality explains fatigue in Addison’s disease?
Hyperkalemia
Which intervention prevents respiratory complications in immobile patients?
Encourage deep breathing and incentive spirometry
Which lab finding best differentiates HHS from DKA?
Very high glucose (>600 mg/dL) with minimal ketones and pH >7.3
Which part of Virchow’s Triad is increased by hip surgery?
Endothelial injury
What is the priority intervention for thyroid storm with fever and tachycardia?
Administer beta-blockers to control heart rate
What is the priority intervention for a patient in Addisonian crisis?
Administer IV hydrocortisone
Which musculoskeletal structure allows smooth movement between bones?
Cartilage
A patient with DKA develops tall, peaked T-waves on ECG. What does this indicate?
Hyperkalemia
What is the priority intervention to prevent fluid overload during a transfusion in a patient with heart failure?
Administer transfusion slowly; diuretics may be ordered
Which electrolyte imbalance is common after parathyroidectomy?
Hypocalcemia (positive Chvostek/Trousseau signs)
Which test confirms Cushing’s syndrome?
No suppression of cortisol after dexamethasone
Which red flag symptom in osteoporosis requires urgent intervention?
Sudden severe back pain with neurological deficits
What is the most important first intervention for a patient admitted with DKA?
Administer 0.9% normal saline (fluid resuscitation)
Which symptom suggests pulmonary embolism rather than DVT? (2 answers)
Sudden chest pain and dyspnea
Which lab pattern best confirms hyperthyroidism?
Low TSH and high T4
Which medication must be avoided in pheochromocytoma due to hypertensive crisis risk?
Metoclopramide
What are the “6 Ps” of compartment syndrome?
Pain, Pallor, Pulselessness, Paresthesia, Paralysis, Poikilothermia
Which long-term complication of diabetes causes loss of sensation in the feet?
Diabetic neuropathy
Which finding shows anticoagulation interventions were effective in a patient with high INR?
INR decreases into therapeutic range
What is the first nursing priority in myxedema coma?
Airway/ventilatory support
What is the key patient teaching point for long-term corticosteroid therapy?
Do not stop abruptly; taper doses gradually
Which complication of immobility can cause shallow breathing and pneumonia?
Atelectasis and respiratory infection