NUR 355 Exam 4: Acute & Chronic Health Disruptions In
Adults I V1 - Arizona College Updated and Latest Questions
and Correct Answers with Rationale
1. A patient is experiencing hypoglycemia with a blood glucose level of 55 mg/dL. Which action should the
nurse take first?
A. Call the healthcare provider immediately.
B. Administer 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates.
C. Check the patient’s hemoglobin A1c level.
D. Administer long-acting insulin as scheduled.
Ans: B
Explanation: Hypoglycemia is defined as a blood glucose level lower than 70 mg/dL. The priority
intervention is to provide simple carbohydrates to raise glucose levels quickly. The nurse should follow
the 15-15 rule by giving 15 grams of carbs and rechecking in 15 minutes. Delayed treatment can lead to
neurological impairment or loss of consciousness. Ensuring the patient is stable before calling the
provider is essential for safety.
2. Which clinical manifestation is most characteristic of right-sided heart failure?
A. Crackles in the lungs
B. Peripheral edema
C. Shortness of breath
D. Productive cough
Ans: B
,Explanation: Right-sided heart failure occurs when the heart cannot effectively pump blood to the lungs.
This causes blood to back up into the systemic venous circulation. Peripheral edema is a hallmark sign
caused by fluid accumulating in the tissues. In contrast, pulmonary symptoms like crackles typically
indicate left-sided heart failure. Monitoring daily weights is a key nursing intervention for these patients.
3. A patient with COPD is prescribed oxygen. What is the most appropriate delivery method to ensure
precise oxygen concentration?
A. Simple face mask
B. Nasal cannula
C. Non-rebreather mask
D. Venturi mask
Ans: D
Explanation: The Venturi mask is the best choice for providing a specific and consistent oxygen
concentration. Patients with COPD often require precise levels of oxygen to avoid suppressing their
respiratory drive. Other masks provide variable concentrations based on the patient’s breathing pattern.
Correct placement and flow rate are necessary for the mask to function properly. This device is
particularly useful during acute exacerbations of respiratory disease.
4. Which medication is commonly used as a first-line treatment for hypertension?
A. Digoxin
B. Warfarin
C. Albuterol
D. Hydrochlorothiazide
Ans: D
, Explanation: Thiazide diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide are frequently prescribed as initial therapy for
high blood pressure. They work by increasing the excretion of sodium and water from the kidneys.
Reducing fluid volume directly lowers the pressure within the vascular system. Patients should be
monitored for electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia while on this medication. Consistent blood
pressure monitoring helps determine the effectiveness of the treatment plan.
5. A nurse is teaching a patient about GERD management. Which recommendation should be included?
A. Lie down immediately after eating.
B. Avoid spicy and fatty foods.
C. Eat large meals twice a day.
D. Drink orange juice with every meal.
Ans: B
Explanation: Dietary choices play a significant role in managing Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Spicy
and fatty foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and increase acid production. Patients should be
advised to eat small, frequent meals rather than large ones. Staying upright for at least two hours after
eating prevents acid from backing up. These lifestyle changes help reduce the frequency and severity of
heartburn symptoms.
6. What is the primary goal of nursing care for a patient with an acute asthma attack?
A. Maintain a patent airway and improve oxygenation.
B. Increase dietary fiber intake.
C. Promote long-term lifestyle changes.
D. Educate on the use of a peak flow meter.
Ans: A
Adults I V1 - Arizona College Updated and Latest Questions
and Correct Answers with Rationale
1. A patient is experiencing hypoglycemia with a blood glucose level of 55 mg/dL. Which action should the
nurse take first?
A. Call the healthcare provider immediately.
B. Administer 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates.
C. Check the patient’s hemoglobin A1c level.
D. Administer long-acting insulin as scheduled.
Ans: B
Explanation: Hypoglycemia is defined as a blood glucose level lower than 70 mg/dL. The priority
intervention is to provide simple carbohydrates to raise glucose levels quickly. The nurse should follow
the 15-15 rule by giving 15 grams of carbs and rechecking in 15 minutes. Delayed treatment can lead to
neurological impairment or loss of consciousness. Ensuring the patient is stable before calling the
provider is essential for safety.
2. Which clinical manifestation is most characteristic of right-sided heart failure?
A. Crackles in the lungs
B. Peripheral edema
C. Shortness of breath
D. Productive cough
Ans: B
,Explanation: Right-sided heart failure occurs when the heart cannot effectively pump blood to the lungs.
This causes blood to back up into the systemic venous circulation. Peripheral edema is a hallmark sign
caused by fluid accumulating in the tissues. In contrast, pulmonary symptoms like crackles typically
indicate left-sided heart failure. Monitoring daily weights is a key nursing intervention for these patients.
3. A patient with COPD is prescribed oxygen. What is the most appropriate delivery method to ensure
precise oxygen concentration?
A. Simple face mask
B. Nasal cannula
C. Non-rebreather mask
D. Venturi mask
Ans: D
Explanation: The Venturi mask is the best choice for providing a specific and consistent oxygen
concentration. Patients with COPD often require precise levels of oxygen to avoid suppressing their
respiratory drive. Other masks provide variable concentrations based on the patient’s breathing pattern.
Correct placement and flow rate are necessary for the mask to function properly. This device is
particularly useful during acute exacerbations of respiratory disease.
4. Which medication is commonly used as a first-line treatment for hypertension?
A. Digoxin
B. Warfarin
C. Albuterol
D. Hydrochlorothiazide
Ans: D
, Explanation: Thiazide diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide are frequently prescribed as initial therapy for
high blood pressure. They work by increasing the excretion of sodium and water from the kidneys.
Reducing fluid volume directly lowers the pressure within the vascular system. Patients should be
monitored for electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia while on this medication. Consistent blood
pressure monitoring helps determine the effectiveness of the treatment plan.
5. A nurse is teaching a patient about GERD management. Which recommendation should be included?
A. Lie down immediately after eating.
B. Avoid spicy and fatty foods.
C. Eat large meals twice a day.
D. Drink orange juice with every meal.
Ans: B
Explanation: Dietary choices play a significant role in managing Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Spicy
and fatty foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and increase acid production. Patients should be
advised to eat small, frequent meals rather than large ones. Staying upright for at least two hours after
eating prevents acid from backing up. These lifestyle changes help reduce the frequency and severity of
heartburn symptoms.
6. What is the primary goal of nursing care for a patient with an acute asthma attack?
A. Maintain a patent airway and improve oxygenation.
B. Increase dietary fiber intake.
C. Promote long-term lifestyle changes.
D. Educate on the use of a peak flow meter.
Ans: A
