Nursing Elites

1. The nurse assesses a 2-year-old who is admitted for dehydration and finds that the peripheral IV rate by gravity has slowed, even though the venous access site is healthy. What should the nurse do next?

• A. Apply a warm compress proximal to the site.
• B. Check for kinks in the tubing and raise the IV pole.
• C. Adjust the tape that stabilizes the needle.
• D. Change the IV solution bag.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a nurse assesses a slowed IV rate by gravity with a healthy venous access site in a 2-year-old admitted for dehydration, the next step would be to check for kinks in the tubing and raise the IV pole. This action ensures that the IV fluid can flow freely and reach the patient at the correct rate. Applying a warm compress proximal to the site (Choice A) is not indicated in this situation as it does not address the underlying issue of a slowed IV rate due to mechanical factors. Adjusting the tape that stabilizes the needle (Choice C) or changing the IV solution bag (Choice D) are not the priority actions in this case. These choices do not address the issue of a slowed IV rate caused by kinks in the tubing or the height of the IV pole, which are more likely reasons for the problem observed.

2. Which is an example of an intentional tort?

• A. Negligence
• B. Malpractice
• C. Breach of duty
• D. False imprisonment

Correct answer: D

Rationale: False imprisonment is a clear example of an intentional tort where one person deliberately confines another without lawful justification. It involves intentional, wrongful restraint of a person's freedom of movement. Negligence, on the other hand, is an unintentional tort that occurs when someone fails to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to others. Malpractice, which involves professional negligence, is also classified as an unintentional tort as it is a failure to meet the standard of care expected in a particular profession. Breach of duty, while a legal concept, is not an example of an intentional tort. It refers to a failure to fulfill a legal obligation or duty owed to another party, often leading to legal consequences, but it is not categorized as an intentional tort.

3. When taking a client's blood pressure, the nurse is unable to distinguish the point at which the first sound was heard. Which is the best action for the nurse to take?

• A. Deflate the cuff completely and immediately reattempt the reading.
• B. Re-inflate the cuff completely and leave it inflated for 90 to 110 seconds before taking the second reading.
• C. Deflate the cuff to zero and wait 30 to 60 seconds before reattempting the reading.
• D. Document the exact level visualized on the sphygmomanometer where the first fluctuation was seen.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When the nurse is unable to distinguish the point at which the first sound was heard while taking a client's blood pressure, the best action is to deflate the cuff to zero and wait 30 to 60 seconds before reattempting the reading. Deflating the cuff for this duration allows blood flow to return to the extremity, ensuring an accurate reading on that extremity a second time. Option A of deflating the cuff completely and immediately reattempting the reading could lead to a falsely high reading. Option B, re-inflating the cuff completely and leaving it inflated for 90 to 110 seconds, reduces circulation, causes pain, and may alter the reading. Option D, documenting the exact level visualized on the sphygmomanometer where the first fluctuation was seen, is not a reliable method for assessing blood pressure and does not address the issue of obtaining an accurate reading.

4. When a man with dementia is admitted to a long-term care facility, his wife, who appears tired and angry, says in a sarcastic tone, 'Let's see what you can do with him.' Which response is therapeutic?

• A. It sounds like it's been difficult for you.'
• B. I don't understand what you mean.'
• C. 'I have experience with all types of clients.'
• D. It's too bad you didn't admit him sooner.'

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct response is to acknowledge the caregiver's feelings and challenges without blaming them. Option A, 'It sounds like it's been difficult for you,' shows empathy and opens the channel of communication. Options B and C, 'I don't understand what you mean' and 'I have experience with all types of clients,' are nurse-focused responses that block effective communication. Option D, 'It's too bad you didn't admit him sooner,' is a hostile response that shifts the blame to the caregiver, which is not therapeutic in this situation.

5. Which behavior indicates that the client has learned the most effective method to cope with anger?

• A. Goes for a long jog
• B. Talks about the anger
• C. Goes outside and screams
• D. Focuses on cause of anger

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Talks about the anger.' This response indicates that the client has learned a positive coping method, as discussing angry feelings is a healthier way of dealing with anger. Talking about anger allows for expression and communication, leading to a better understanding of the emotions involved. Going for a long jog or screaming outside may provide temporary relief, but they do not address the root cause or help in processing the emotions effectively. Focusing solely on the cause of anger without expressing feelings may lead to increased frustration and escalation of anger, rather than promoting constructive coping mechanisms.

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