Nursing Elites

1. A client comes into the community health center upset and crying stating, “I will die of cancer now that I have this disease.” And then the client hands the nurse a paper with one word written on it: 'Pheochromocytoma.' Which response should the nurse state initially?

• A. 'Pheochromocytomas usually aren't cancerous (malignant). But they may be associated with cancerous tumors in other endocrine glands such as the thyroid (medullary carcinoma of the thyroid).'
• B. 'This problem is diagnosed by blood and urine tests that reveal elevated levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline.'
• C. 'Computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to detect an adrenal tumor.'
• D. 'You probably have had episodes of sweating, heart pounding, and headaches.'

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct initial response for the nurse to provide in this situation is to offer reassurance. Stating that 'Pheochromocytomas usually aren't cancerous (malignant)' helps to alleviate the client's anxiety and fear of having cancer. This response also establishes a foundation for further discussion about the condition, allowing the nurse to address the client's concerns and provide accurate information. Choice B is incorrect as it focuses solely on the diagnostic tests for pheochromocytoma but does not address the client's emotional distress. Choice C is incorrect as it discusses imaging modalities without directly addressing the client's concerns. Choice D is also incorrect as it assumes symptoms without first addressing the client's emotional state and fear of cancer.

2. The nurse has just admitted a client with severe depression. From which focus should the nurse identify a priority nursing diagnosis?

• A. Nutrition
• B. Elimination
• C. Activity
• D. Safety

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In severe depression, the priority nursing diagnosis is safety. Individuals with severe depression are at risk of self-harm or suicide. Ensuring the client's safety by implementing measures to prevent harm to themselves or others is crucial. While nutrition, elimination, and activity are important aspects of care, ensuring the client's immediate safety takes precedence in this situation.

3. Which of the following is an example of a positive outcome for one of the Leading Health Indicators of Healthy People 2020?

• A. A community has adopted a no smoking policy.
• B. A rural community has a public transportation system.
• C. The high school dropout rate has decreased by 15%.
• D. A county has decreased its divorce rate by 10%.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. A community adopting a no smoking policy is a positive outcome for the Leading Health Indicators of Healthy People 2020 as it promotes a healthier environment by reducing exposure to secondhand smoke and decreasing smoking-related illnesses. Choices B, C, and D do not directly align with the goals of the Leading Health Indicators. While public transportation and reduced dropout rates are beneficial for community well-being, they are not specific examples of Leading Health Indicators. Decreasing divorce rates, while potentially beneficial for family stability, is not a focus area of the Leading Health Indicators.

4. When assisting a family who fails to take action during a sick member despite suggestions, you will:

• A. explain the consequences of inaction
• B. identify the courses of action open to the family and the resources needed for each
• C. discuss the consequences of each course of action available
• D. influence the family to act on what you think is best for the situation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When helping a family decide on actions to take, it is essential to identify the courses of action available to them and the resources needed for each. This empowers the family to make informed decisions based on their specific situation. Explaining the consequences of inaction (Choice A) may be necessary but does not provide a range of options. Discussing the consequences of each course of action (Choice C) is important but does not actively guide the family on the available actions. Influencing the family (Choice D) to act based on personal judgment undermines their autonomy and may not lead to the best outcome.

5. The nurse is teaching a client about the healthy use of ego defense mechanisms. An appropriate goal for this client would be

• A. Reduce fear and protect self-esteem
• B. Minimize anxiety and delay apprehension
• C. Avoid conflict and leave unpleasant situations
• D. Increase independence and communicate more effectively

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Reduce fear and protect self-esteem.' When teaching a client about the healthy use of ego defense mechanisms, the goal is to help the individual manage emotions effectively without denying reality. Using defense mechanisms in a healthy way aims to reduce fear and protect self-esteem while still addressing underlying issues. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not focus on the core principles of using defense mechanisms in a healthy manner. Minimizing anxiety and delaying apprehension, avoiding conflict and leaving unpleasant situations, and increasing independence and communicating more effectively do not directly align with the goal of utilizing ego defense mechanisms in a constructive way.

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