Nursing Elites

1. A case manager is reviewing notations made in clients' records. Which note indicates an unexpected outcome and the need for immediate follow-up?

• A. A client who exhibits signs of increased intracranial pressure after a craniotomy.
• B. A client who has sustained a stroke and dresses herself.
• C. A client with a spinal cord injury transfers himself from a bed to a wheelchair.
• D. Normal neurological findings are noted in a client with a cerebral aneurysm.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A case manager is responsible for coordinating a client's care and monitoring for unexpected outcomes. The situation that indicates an unexpected outcome and the need for immediate follow-up is when a client exhibits signs of increased intracranial pressure after a craniotomy. This indicates a deteriorating condition that requires urgent intervention. Choices B, C, and D describe expected outcomes or normal findings related to specific conditions, which do not demand immediate follow-up.

2. The nurse is caring for a client awaiting test results on a biopsy. The client is unconscious, and the physician informs the client's spouse that the biopsy came back positive for cancer. The spouse asks the nurse if they will not share this news with the client because they would prefer the client be unaware of the diagnosis. Which of the following responses is most appropriate?

• A. "I will have a psychiatrist confirm whether the news will cause negative effects, and if so, I will comply with your request."?
• B. "For ethical reasons, I am unable to withhold this information from the client."?
• C. "You do not have the option to sign paperwork stating you are accepting the risk of not sharing this with the client."?
• D. "You must have a durable power of attorney for healthcare advanced directive in place before I can consider this request."?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct response is, "For ethical reasons, I am unable to withhold this information from the client."? The ethical principle of veracity requires that the nurse is truthful with the client and does not withhold information even if it is requested by the family. Choice A is incorrect because seeking a psychiatrist's confirmation is not necessary to uphold the ethical principle of truth-telling. Choice C is incorrect as implying that signing paperwork overrides the nurse's ethical obligation to be honest with the client is inappropriate. Choice D is also incorrect as a durable power of attorney is not relevant in this situation where the spouse is asking the nurse to withhold information.

3. Which situation is an example of the use of evidence-based practice in the delivery of client care?

• A. Encouraging a client who has had a stroke to consume thickened liquids and soft foods
• B. Picking up a dislodged radiation implant with long-handled forceps and placing it in a lead container to minimize radiation exposure
• C. Pouring 1 to 2 mL of sterile solution that will be used for wound cleansing into a plastic-lined waste receptacle before pouring the solution into a sterile basin
• D. Blowing on a fingerstick site to dry it after cleaning the site with an alcohol swab

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Evidence-based practice is an approach that integrates client preferences, clinical expertise, and the best research evidence to deliver quality care. Pouring sterile solution into a plastic-lined waste receptacle before using it for wound cleansing reflects evidence-based practice by preventing the entrance of harmful bacteria into the wound. Option A is incorrect because encouraging a stroke client to consume thickened liquids and soft foods is appropriate, not thin liquids and foods that pose a choking risk. Option B is incorrect as picking up a radiation implant with long-handled forceps to minimize radiation exposure is a safety measure, not evidence-based practice. Option D is incorrect because blowing on a fingerstick site after cleaning can recontaminate the site, which goes against best practices in infection control.

4. An LPN is talking with a client scheduled to undergo a vasectomy in the next few minutes. He states, "I know I signed the form and all, but I'm not feeling so sure of this. It can be reversed pretty easily, right?"? What is the LPN's best response?

• A. "Yes, vasectomies can be reversed, but once you have it, you may regret it later."?
• B. "It's normal to feel a little nervous before a procedure like this."?
• C. "It sounds like you have a few more questions you'd like answered. Let me grab the doctor quickly so he can answer them for you."?
• D. "It sounds like you might be a little nervous. Don't worry, this is a pretty minor procedure, and the doctor doing it is the best we have. You're in great hands."?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The best response for the LPN is to acknowledge the client's concerns and offer to provide more information. By offering to get the doctor to answer any additional questions, the LPN shows respect for the client's right to informed consent. Option A provides some information but dismisses the client's uncertainty and implies they won't regret the decision, which may not be the case. Option B acknowledges nervousness but doesn't directly address the client's request for more information. Option D attempts to reassure the client but fails to address the need for additional questions to be answered by the doctor.

5. An Asian family has an elderly member with the latest stage of Alzheimer's disease. The physician has recommended placement in a long-term care facility, but the family refuses. Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?

• A. "You really need to listen to what the physician says."?
• B. "You will get too tired to take care of him at home."?
• C. "What can I do to assist you to care for him at home?"?
• D. "You are too busy to be taking care of an elderly person."?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is, "What can I do to assist you to care for him at home?"? This response shows cultural sensitivity and respect for the family's values. In many Asian cultures, there is a strong tradition of caring for elders at home rather than in a long-term care facility. By offering assistance to the family in caring for their elderly member at home, the nurse shows understanding and support. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not acknowledge or respect the family's cultural beliefs and values regarding caring for elderly family members.

Similar Questions