Nursing Elites

1. A client is taking hydrocodone (Vicodin) for chronic back pain. The client has required an increase in the dose and asks whether this means he is addicted to Vicodin. The nurse should base her reply on the knowledge that:

• A. the client's body has developed tolerance, requiring more drug to produce the same effect
• B. the client is preoccupied with getting the drug and is experiencing loss of control, indicating drug dependence
• C. addiction involves psychological behaviors related to substance use, not just physical dependence
• D. the client is coping with chronic back pain and requires adjustments in the medication regimen

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a client requires an increased dose of a drug, such as in this case with hydrocodone, it suggests that the body has developed tolerance to the medication. Tolerance means that the client needs more of the drug to achieve the same effect as before. This does not inherently indicate addiction, which involves psychological behaviors related to substance use. Choice B describes drug dependence, where the client is preoccupied with obtaining the drug and experiences loss of control, which is not the same as tolerance. Choice C correctly points out that addiction is more than just physical dependence with withdrawal symptoms and tolerance; it includes psychological factors. Choice D is irrelevant as it discusses adjusting the medication for pain management, not addressing the client's concern about addiction.

2. The client is scheduled for a pericentesis. Which instruction should be given to the client before the exam?

• A. "You will need to lie flat during the exam."?
• B. "You need to empty your bladder before the procedure."?
• C. "You will be asleep during the procedure."?
• D. "The doctor will inject a medication to treat your illness during the procedure."?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The client scheduled for a pericentesis should be instructed to empty the bladder to prevent the risk of bladder puncture when the needle is inserted. A pericentesis involves removing fluid from the peritoneal cavity. The client is typically positioned sitting up or leaning over a table, making answer A incorrect. During a pericentesis, the client is usually awake, so answer C is incorrect. Medications are not commonly injected into the peritoneal cavity during this procedure, making answer D incorrect. However, it's important to note that the administration of medications during the procedure could vary based on specific circumstances.

3. The nurse is caring for a dying client who has persistently requested that the nurse 'help her to die and be in peace.' According to the Code of Ethics for Nurses, the nurse should:

• A. Ask the client if she has signed an advance directives document.
• B. Tell the client that another nurse will be assigned to care for her.
• C. Instruct the client that only a physician can legally assist in suicide.
• D. Try to make the client as comfortable as possible, but refuse to assist in death.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: According to the Code of Ethics for Nurses, the nurse should try to make the client as comfortable as possible but refuse to assist in death. It is not within the scope of nursing practice to assist in death, even if requested by the client. Choice A is incorrect as advance directives do not directly relate to the client's request for assistance in dying. Choice B is inappropriate as passing the responsibility to another nurse does not address the ethical dilemma at hand. Choice C is incorrect because instructing the client that only a physician can legally assist in suicide does not address the ethical considerations involved in the request. Therefore, the most appropriate action for the nurse is to provide comfort measures while upholding ethical standards and not participating in ending the client's life.

4. A client arrives in the emergency room with a possible fractured femur. The nurse should anticipate an order for:

• A. Trendelenburg position
• B. Ice to the entire extremity
• C. Buck's traction
• D. An abduction pillow

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is Buck's traction. This intervention is used to realign the fractured femur, reduce spasms, and alleviate pain. Placing the client in the Trendelenburg position is inappropriate for a femur fracture, making answer A incorrect. While ice may be used post-repair, applying it to the entire extremity is unnecessary, so answer B is wrong. An abduction pillow is typically employed following a total hip replacement, not for a fractured femur, rendering answer D incorrect.

5. A client with glomerulonephritis is placed on a low-sodium diet. Which of the following snacks is suitable for the client with sodium restriction?

• A. Peanut butter cookies
• B. Grilled cheese sandwich
• C. Cottage cheese and fruit
• D. Fresh peach

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is a fresh peach. It is the most suitable snack for a client with sodium restriction as it is naturally low in sodium. Peanut butter cookies (choice A), grilled cheese sandwich (choice B), and cottage cheese and fruit (choice C) contain higher amounts of sodium, making them unsuitable choices for someone on a low-sodium diet. Fresh fruits like peaches are excellent options for individuals on a low-sodium diet as they are not only low in sodium but also provide essential nutrients and hydration.

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