NUR 265 Exam 1 Medical-Surgical Nursing (2026) PDF |
Galen College of Nursing
, Question 1: Cirrhosis with Ascites
Scenario:
The RN is caring for a patient with cirrhosis who develops increasing abdominal
girth with abdominal discomfort. Which medication should the RN expect as a
new order from the health care provider?
Options:
A. Furosemide (Lasix)
B. Spironolactone
C. Beta-blockers
D. Albumin
Correct Answer: B. Spironolactone
Rationale:
Ascites from cirrhosis is primarily driven by portal hypertension and secondary
hyperaldosteronism. Spironolactone, a potassium-sparing aldosterone antagonist,
is the first-line diuretic for managing fluid retention in this population. Unlike loop
diuretics (furosemide) which can worsen hypokalemia, spironolactone preserves
potassium while promoting fluid loss. Beta-blockers are used for portal
hypertension and variceal bleeding prophylaxis, not ascites. Albumin may be used
for large-volume paracentesis or hepatorenal syndrome, but it is not the primary
pharmacologic treatment for initial ascites management.
Question 2: Pancreatitis Complications
Scenario:
The RN is caring for a patient with acute pancreatitis. Which assessment
parameters should the RN continue to monitor to decrease the risk of Acute
Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)?
Options:
A. Hypotension and tachycardia
B. Respiratory rate and oxygen saturation
Galen College of Nursing
, Question 1: Cirrhosis with Ascites
Scenario:
The RN is caring for a patient with cirrhosis who develops increasing abdominal
girth with abdominal discomfort. Which medication should the RN expect as a
new order from the health care provider?
Options:
A. Furosemide (Lasix)
B. Spironolactone
C. Beta-blockers
D. Albumin
Correct Answer: B. Spironolactone
Rationale:
Ascites from cirrhosis is primarily driven by portal hypertension and secondary
hyperaldosteronism. Spironolactone, a potassium-sparing aldosterone antagonist,
is the first-line diuretic for managing fluid retention in this population. Unlike loop
diuretics (furosemide) which can worsen hypokalemia, spironolactone preserves
potassium while promoting fluid loss. Beta-blockers are used for portal
hypertension and variceal bleeding prophylaxis, not ascites. Albumin may be used
for large-volume paracentesis or hepatorenal syndrome, but it is not the primary
pharmacologic treatment for initial ascites management.
Question 2: Pancreatitis Complications
Scenario:
The RN is caring for a patient with acute pancreatitis. Which assessment
parameters should the RN continue to monitor to decrease the risk of Acute
Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)?
Options:
A. Hypotension and tachycardia
B. Respiratory rate and oxygen saturation
