MedSurg Final Flashcards

What is the recommended positioning for GERD management?

Lying on the left side.

What should a patient on fluid restriction do?

Make a list of their favorite beverages.

How should you manage lice (pediculosis) in children?

Wash the children’s clothes and toys with hot water.

What is a long-term effect of glaucoma?

It can cause blindness over time.

What is the recommended fluid intake for a patient with urolithiasis (kidney stones)?

They should drink 3 liters of water.

Is Herpes Zoster (Shingles) contagious?

No, it is not contagious and cannot be spread to others.

What medication should a nurse prepare for treating Herpes Zoster?

Acyclovir.

What is a sign of end-stage kidney failure?

Increased BUN levels.

What can trigger a lupus exacerbation?

It is NOT caused by exercise.

How do you check if a fistula is working?

Listen for bruits.

What should a patient undergoing an MRI be taught?

To wear earplugs.

What is a sign of infection at the pin site after surgery?

Fever.

What is the treatment for DKA?

0.9% sodium chloride.

What should you do for someone with Raynaud's phenomenon?

Do anything to reduce stress and wear gloves when reaching into the freezer.

Which patient should be assessed first in a medical setting?

The patient with shortness of breath.

What is the abduction position used for?

For hip replacement patients.

What is crucial when obtaining consent for surgery?

The patient needs to understand the procedure.

What is an important step regarding blood thinners prior to surgery?

Ask the doctor before administering.

How should post-operative pain be taught?

Using the 0-10 pain scale.

What condition should an 80-year-old patient be monitored for during surgery?

Hypothermia.

What should nurses assess in the post-operative phase?

AIRWAYS assessment, nausea

How often should vitals be taken during a blood transfusion?

Every 15 minutes; temperature every 5 minutes.

What are the first signs of a transfusion reaction?

Increased heart rate, and then fever.

Where is a bone marrow biopsy typically taken from?

Iliac crest and sternum.

What does a pulmonary function test require from the patient?

A fasting period of 6 to 8 hours.

What is laryngitis?

Inflammation of the vocal cords.

What should be done if someone has sinusitis?

Palpate the sinuses.

What symptom describes pharyngitis?

Sore throat, often caused by strep.

What is an important lifestyle change for someone with sleep apnea?

Lose weight.

What is a macule in dermatology?

A flat skin lesion that is less than one cm.

What characterizes vesicles on the skin?

They are raised and fluid-filled.

How should impetigo be treated?

With topical antibiotics; it presents as vesicles.

What type of skin lesion is associated with Herpes Simplex?

Vesicles, commonly known as cold sores.

What is the cause of scabies?

A bug that causes an itchy macular rash.

What is crucial for managing cataracts?

Surgery.

How is glaucoma managed?

With lifelong use of eye drops.

What does a retinal detachment patient experience?

No pain, but has symptoms of curtain effects, flashing lights, and floaters.

What does the Weber test assess?

Hearing it in both ears indicates normal findings.

How long should air conduction be compared to bone conduction in the Rinne test?

Air conduction should be longer than bone conduction.

What can elevated potassium levels cause?

Cardiac arrhythmias.

What test result indicates alkalosis?

Vomiting.

What are signs of dehydration?

Low blood pressure, increased heart rate, tenting of the skin.

What crucial sign indicates fluid volume excess?

High blood pressure and edema.

What should be done if urinalysis shows bad results?

Perform a bacterial culture to identify treatable bacteria.

What is the purpose of the KUB X-ray?

To visualize kidney, ureter, bladder for kidney stones.

What does the RAAS system control?

Blood pressure through the kidneys.

What type of infection is cystitis?

A urinary tract infection.

What is a key characteristic of nephrolithiasis?

Kidney stones.

What should patients with urinary calculi do for prevention?

Drink 3 liters of water daily.

What dietary change helps with hypoglycemia?

Providing a snack with 15 grams of carbohydrates.

What are macrovascular health risks in diabetics?

Heart attack and stroke.

What are sick day rules for diabetics?

Continue taking insulin and check blood sugar.

What is the primary symptom of left-sided heart failure?

Lung congestion.

What should patients with PAD avoid?

Elevating their legs.

What should be done for venous disease symptoms?

Elevate legs and use compression hose.

What dietary restrictions apply for patients with gout?

Low purines and avoidance of alcohol.

What should you do immediately in the case of a seizure?

Protect from injury and maintain airway.

What are the signs of MS?

Spasms, fatigue, lack of movement, and double vision.

What does TRAP stand for in Parkinson's disease symptoms?

Tremors, rigidity, akinesia, postural instability.

What imaging techniques are used to evaluate a stroke?

CT scan followed by MRI.

What does an ANA test assess for?

Autoimmune disorders and inflammation.

What is the main symptom of fibromyalgia?

Chronic pain.

What is the main difference between acute and chronic conditions?

Duration of 3 months or longer.

What is a common assessment for osteomyelitis?

Check for increased temperature, redness, warmth, and elevated WBC.

What are the key considerations during cast care?

Monitor for circulation, sensation, and capillary refill.