Nursing Elites

1. Following the change of shift report, when can or should the nurse alter or modify the plan?

• A. halfway through the shift
• B. at the end of the shift before handing over
• C. when needs change
• D. after the top-priority tasks have been completed

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'when needs change.' The nurse should be flexible and adjust the plan as necessary when the needs of the patients change. This ensures that care is provided effectively and efficiently. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because altering the plan based on time intervals, solely at the end of the shift, or after completing top-priority tasks may not align with the current needs of the patients.

2. A client is admitted to the acute care unit. Initial laboratory values reveal serum sodium of 170meq/L. What behavior changes would be most common for this client?

• A. Anger
• B. Mania
• C. Depression
• D. Psychosis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Mania.' A client with a serum sodium level of 170 meq/L has hypernatremia, which can lead to manic behavior. Hypernatremia is associated with irritability, restlessness, confusion, and in severe cases, manic symptoms. Choices A, C, and D (Anger, Depression, Psychosis) are not typically associated with hypernatremia and are, therefore, incorrect in this context.

3. The nurse is caring for a client scheduled for removal of a pituitary tumor using the transsphenoidal approach. The nurse should be particularly alert for:

• A. Nasal congestion
• B. Abdominal tenderness
• C. Muscle tetany
• D. Oliguria

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During the removal of a pituitary tumor using the transsphenoidal approach, nasal congestion is a significant concern as it can further obstruct the airway. This can be due to mucosal swelling, bleeding, or edema resulting from the surgery. Nasal congestion requires immediate attention to prevent airway compromise. Abdominal tenderness, muscle tetany, and oliguria are not directly associated with the pituitary gland or the transsphenoidal approach, making them incorrect choices. Abdominal tenderness is more common in abdominal or pelvic surgeries due to intra-abdominal issues. Muscle tetany is related to electrolyte imbalances or neuromuscular disorders, not specific to pituitary surgery. Oliguria is a concern in renal-related conditions, not typically in pituitary tumor surgeries.

4. The client returns to the unit from surgery with a blood pressure of 90/50, pulse 132, respirations 30. Which action by the nurse should receive priority?

• A. Continue monitoring the vital signs
• B. Contact the physician
• C. Ask the client how they feel
• D. Ask the LPN to continue post-op care

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority action for the nurse is to contact the physician immediately due to the client's abnormal vital signs. A blood pressure of 90/50, pulse of 132, and respirations of 30 indicate instability and require prompt medical attention. Continuing to monitor vital signs, as in choice A, may lead to a delay in necessary interventions. Asking the client how they feel, as in choice C, provides subjective data and does not address the urgent need for medical intervention. Involving the LPN, as in choice D, is not appropriate in this critical situation where the client's condition is unstable and requires immediate physician assessment and intervention.

5. A health care worker is concerned about a new mother being overwhelmed by caring for her infant. What should the health care worker do?

• A. Immediately contact child protective services.
• B. Provide the mother with literature about child care.
• C. Consult a therapist to help the mother work out her fears.
• D. Refer the mother to parenting classes.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a health care worker is concerned about a new mother being overwhelmed by caring for her infant, the best course of action is to refer the mother to parenting classes. Prevention of child abuse is focused on educating parents on how to care for their child and handle the demands of infant care. By attending parenting classes, the mother can build self-confidence, self-esteem, and coping skills. Parenting classes help parents understand the developmental needs of their children and learn effective ways to manage their home environment. Additionally, these classes provide parents with increased social contacts and knowledge about community resources. Contacting child protective services (choice A) should not be the immediate action as there is no indication of abuse. Providing literature about child care (choice B) may not be as effective as hands-on parenting classes. Consulting a therapist (choice C) may be beneficial, but addressing parenting skills through classes is more appropriate in this scenario.

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