Nursing Elites

1. A client post-thyroidectomy is being monitored for signs of hypocalcemia. Which of the following symptoms should the nurse be most concerned about?

• A. Tingling in the hands and around the mouth.
• B. Nausea and vomiting.
• C. Constipation.
• D. Bradycardia.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tingling in the hands and around the mouth. This symptom is a classic sign of hypocalcemia, which can occur after thyroidectomy if the parathyroid glands were inadvertently damaged during surgery. Nausea and vomiting (Choice B) are not specific to hypocalcemia. Constipation (Choice C) is not a typical symptom of hypocalcemia. Bradycardia (Choice D) is more commonly associated with hypothyroidism rather than hypocalcemia.

2. A post-operative client is prescribed sequential compression devices (SCDs) while on bed rest. What is the primary purpose of this device?

• A. To prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
• B. To improve circulation in the legs.
• C. To prevent pressure ulcers.
• D. To alleviate post-operative pain.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'To prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT).' Sequential compression devices (SCDs) are primarily used to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by promoting blood flow in the legs and reducing venous stasis, which is a common risk for post-operative clients who are on bed rest. While SCDs do improve circulation in the legs indirectly, their primary purpose is DVT prevention. Preventing pressure ulcers is typically achieved through repositioning and support surfaces, not with SCDs, making choice C incorrect. SCDs are not used to alleviate post-operative pain, so choice D is also incorrect.

3. What is the priority intervention for a patient experiencing an acute asthma attack?

• A. Administering a bronchodilator
• B. Encouraging the patient to drink fluids
• C. Applying a high-flow oxygen mask
• D. Performing chest physiotherapy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering a bronchodilator is the priority intervention in an acute asthma attack. Bronchodilators help to quickly open the airways, relieve bronchospasm, and improve breathing. Encouraging the patient to drink fluids may be beneficial for other conditions but is not the priority in an acute asthma attack. Applying a high-flow oxygen mask may be necessary in severe cases of respiratory distress but is not the initial priority when managing an acute asthma attack. Performing chest physiotherapy is not indicated as the primary intervention for an acute asthma attack and may not address the immediate need to open the airways and improve breathing.

4. A client post-lobectomy is placed on mechanical ventilation. The nurse notices the client is fighting the ventilator. What should the nurse do first?

• A. Increase the sedation as prescribed.
• B. Manually ventilate the client using an ambu bag.
• C. Check the ventilator settings and alarms.
• D. Suction the client’s airway.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct first action for the nurse to take when a client is fighting the ventilator is to check the ventilator settings and alarms. This step is crucial to ensure that the ventilator is functioning correctly and providing the necessary support to the client. Increasing sedation (Choice A) should only be considered after confirming that the ventilator settings are appropriate. While manually ventilating the client (Choice B) may be required in some cases, it is not the initial action to take. Suctioning the client's airway (Choice D) is not the priority in this situation, where the primary concern is addressing the client's struggle with the ventilator.

5. A female Native American client who is receiving chemotherapy places a native artifact, an Indian medicine wheel, in her hospital room. The HCP removes the medicine wheel and tells the client, 'This type of thing does not belong in the hospital.' Which intervention should the PN implement?

• A. Teach the client about the importance of adhering to the chemotherapy regimen
• B. Act as the client's advocate when addressing the issue with the HCP
• C. Consult with a Native American healer about the appropriate use of a medicine wheel
• D. Inform the HCP about the client's feelings of culture shock

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Acting as the client's advocate is the most appropriate intervention in this situation. Removing a culturally significant artifact without considering the client's beliefs and emotional needs can be distressing. By advocating for the client, the PN can ensure that the client's cultural practices are respected, which is crucial for her emotional and spiritual well-being during treatment. Choice A is incorrect because while chemotherapy adherence is important, it is not the most immediate concern in this scenario. The client's cultural needs and well-being take precedence. Choice C is incorrect because consulting with a Native American healer might not be necessary at this point and could delay addressing the immediate issue of advocating for the client's rights. Choice D is incorrect because simply reporting the client's feelings of culture shock to the HCP does not actively address the situation or advocate for the client's rights and cultural needs.

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