Nursing Elites

1. The nurse on the medical/surgical unit cares for a client with a diagnosis of cerebrovascular accident (CVA). The nursing assessment of the client’s neurological status should include which of the following? (Select all that apply)

• A. Obtain the pulses in all four extremities
• B. Ask the client to grasp and squeeze two fingers on each of the nurse’s hands
• C. Determine the client’s orientation to person, place, and time
• D. B, C

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct choices are B and C. Assessing grasp strength and orientation to person, place, and time are essential components of a neurological assessment after a CVA. Pulse assessment in all four extremities is more relevant to circulatory assessment rather than neurological status. Therefore, option A is incorrect.

2. Who typically collects blood specimens?

• A. The nurse
• B. Medical technologist
• C. Physician
• D. Pharmacist

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Nurses typically collect blood specimens from patients as part of their everyday duties in medical settings. They are trained in venipuncture techniques and are responsible for ensuring that blood samples are properly obtained and labeled for diagnostic testing. Medical technologists process and analyze the blood specimens in the laboratory under the direction of a physician, but the actual collection of specimens is commonly performed by nurses. Physicians are primarily responsible for diagnosing and treating medical conditions rather than collecting blood specimens. Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who specialize in medication management and dispensing, not in collecting blood specimens.

3. A client with a diagnosis of catatonic schizophrenia is expected to exhibit which clinical finding?

• A. Crying
• B. Self-mutilation
• C. Immobile posturing
• D. Repetitious activities

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In catatonic schizophrenia, immobile posturing is a common clinical finding where the patient may maintain a rigid or bizarre posture for prolonged periods. Crying (Choice A) is not typically associated with catatonic schizophrenia. Self-mutilation (Choice B) is more commonly seen in conditions like borderline personality disorder. Repetitious activities (Choice D) are not a hallmark symptom of catatonic schizophrenia.

4. A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for a client with a history of atherosclerosis and notes elevated cholesterol levels. Which statement by the client indicates the nurse should plan follow-up instruction on a low-cholesterol diet?

• A. ''I take an omega-3 supplement daily.''
• B. ''I cook my food with canola oil.''
• C. ''I eat three eggs for breakfast each morning.''
• D. ''I flavor my meat with lemon juice.''

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Eating three eggs daily increases cholesterol intake, which could exacerbate atherosclerosis. Omega-3 supplements, cooking with canola oil, and flavoring meat with lemon juice do not significantly impact cholesterol levels compared to consuming three eggs daily. Therefore, the nurse should focus on educating the client to reduce egg consumption to improve cholesterol levels.

5. What is the initial step in providing healthcare for a patient?

• A. Obtain and interpret vital signs
• B. Determine the needs of the patient
• C. Develop a plan of care
• D. Obtain lab work and x-rays

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The initial step in providing healthcare for a patient is to determine the needs of the patient. This step involves assessing the patient's condition, listening to their concerns, and understanding what care or treatment they require. Obtaining and interpreting vital signs (Choice A) is a crucial step but typically follows the assessment of the patient's needs. Developing a plan of care (Choice C) and obtaining lab work and x-rays (Choice D) come after understanding the patient's needs and assessing their condition.

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