Nursing Elites

1. A client is recovering from a right-sided mastectomy and is concerned about lymphedema. What should the nurse include in the discharge teaching to minimize this risk?

• A. Encourage wearing tight clothing on the affected arm.
• B. Advise against lifting heavy objects with the affected arm.
• C. Recommend the client sleep on the affected side.
• D. Suggest frequent massage of the affected arm.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Advise against lifting heavy objects with the affected arm. Lifting heavy objects with the affected arm can increase the risk of lymphedema. It is important for clients to avoid activities that strain the affected arm to minimize the risk of developing lymphedema. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because wearing tight clothing on the affected arm, sleeping on the affected side, and frequent massage of the affected arm can potentially worsen lymphedema or impede the recovery process. Tight clothing can impede lymphatic flow, sleeping on the affected side can restrict circulation, and frequent massage can exacerbate swelling in the arm.

2. When preparing a sterile field for a procedure, which action should the nurse take to maintain sterility?

• A. Place sterile items around the sterile field
• B. Keep hands below waist level to avoid contamination
• C. Open the sterile package away from the body
• D. Avoid reaching over the sterile field

Correct answer: D

Rationale: To maintain sterility when preparing a sterile field, it is essential to avoid reaching over the sterile field. This action can introduce contaminants from the nurse's clothing or unsterile areas, compromising the sterility of the field. Placing sterile items around the sterile field (choice A) is incorrect as it may increase the risk of contamination by extending the area where non-sterile items may come in contact. Keeping hands below waist level (choice B) is also incorrect as it does not prevent contamination effectively. Opening the sterile package away from the body (choice C) is incorrect since it exposes the contents to the nurse's body, which is not sterile.

3. A male client who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia is withdrawn, isolates himself in the day room, and answers questions with one or two-word responses. This morning, the practical nurse observes that he is diaphoretic and is pacing in the hall. Which intervention is most important for the PN to implement?

• A. Persuade the client to lie down
• B. Provide a drink high in electrolytes
• C. Observe the client during the shift
• D. Measure appropriate vital signs

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Measuring vital signs is crucial in this situation as it helps to determine if the client is experiencing a physical health issue or if the symptoms are related to a mental health crisis, such as anxiety or agitation. The presence of diaphoresis and pacing may indicate physiological changes requiring immediate attention. Providing a drink high in electrolytes or persuading the client to lie down may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms. Simply observing the client during the shift without taking necessary actions to assess his physiological status may delay appropriate intervention.

4. In which stage of Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a young adult attempting to achieve when deciding to change his work hours to devote more time to his community?

• A. Self-Actualization
• B. Intimacy vs. Isolation
• C. Altruism
• D. Purposefulness

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Self-Actualization. The young adult is striving for self-actualization, the highest level in Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Self-actualization is characterized by individuals seeking personal growth, self-fulfillment, and the ability to contribute to society. Choice B, Intimacy vs. Isolation, focuses on relationships and occurs at a different stage. Choice C, Altruism, although related to community contribution, does not specifically address personal growth and fulfillment as in self-actualization. Choice D, Purposefulness, is not a stage in Maslow's hierarchy of needs and is not directly relevant to the scenario described.

5. A client who had a right total shoulder replacement is being prepared for discharge. What should the nurse emphasize to the client to prevent complications?

• A. Avoid lifting objects with the right arm until cleared by the surgeon.
• B. Perform shoulder exercises to regain strength.
• C. Use a sling at all times, even during sleep.
• D. Apply heat to the shoulder to reduce stiffness.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to avoid lifting objects with the right arm until cleared by the surgeon. After a total shoulder replacement, it is essential to protect the new joint to prevent dislocation or injury. Lifting heavy objects prematurely can lead to complications. While performing shoulder exercises is important for strength, they should be done as per the healthcare provider's instructions to avoid strain on the new joint. Using a sling at all times, as in choice C, is not necessary once the client has regained enough strength and mobility. Applying heat, as in choice D, may not be recommended post-surgery; cold therapy is often preferred to reduce swelling and pain.

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