MSNCB Endocrine Nursing 4

Question 1

A patient's HbA1c is reported as 9.2%. Which average blood glucose level does this BEST correspond to?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 212 mg/dL

Answer

An HbA1c of 9.2% corresponds to an estimated average glucose (eAG) of approximately 212 mg/dL over the prior 2-3 months.

Question 2

A patient with hypothyroidism is started on levothyroxine. The nurse should teach the patient to take this medication:

Accepted Answer

30-60 minutes before breakfast on an empty stomach

Answer

Levothyroxine absorption is significantly impaired by food, calcium, and iron; it should be taken on an empty stomach 30-60 minutes before breakfast.

Question 3

Which assessment finding indicates that treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is effective?

Accepted Answer

Urine ketones clear and serum bicarbonate rises above 18 mEq/L

Answer

Resolution of DKA is confirmed by closure of the anion gap, clearing ketones, and normalization of serum bicarbonate above 18 mEq/L.

Question 4

The nurse is preparing to administer regular insulin IV for a patient in DKA. Which action is MOST important before beginning the infusion?

Accepted Answer

Check serum potassium level and correct if below 3.5 mEq/L

Answer

Insulin drives potassium intracellularly; if potassium is already low (<3.5 mEq/L), insulin administration can cause life-threatening hypokalemia.

Question 5

A patient with hyperparathyroidism would MOST likely exhibit which set of findings?

Accepted Answer

Hypercalcemia, hypophosphatemia, and nephrolithiasis

Answer

Excess PTH causes calcium release from bones and phosphate wasting by kidneys, leading to hypercalcemia, hypophosphatemia, and renal stones.

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