Nursing Elites

1. A client receiving codeine for pain every 4 to 6 hours over 4 days. Which assessment should the nurse perform before administering the next dose?

• A. Auscultate the bowel sounds.
• B. Palpate the ankles for edema.
• C. Observe the skin for bruising.
• D. Measure the body temperature.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Auscultate the bowel sounds. Codeine is known to cause constipation, so it is essential to assess bowel sounds before administering another dose to monitor for potential constipation or bowel motility issues. Palpating the ankles for edema (Choice B) is not directly related to codeine use or its side effects. Observing the skin for bruising (Choice C) is important but not specifically associated with codeine administration. Measuring body temperature (Choice D) is not a priority assessment related to codeine use; monitoring for constipation is more critical in this case.

2. The nurse assesses a client’s wound. What type of wound requires immediate intervention by the nurse?

• A. Laceration
• B. Abrasion
• C. Contusion
• D. Ulceration

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Lacerations, especially deep ones, are prone to bacterial contamination and may require immediate intervention to prevent infection. Abrasions, contusions, and ulcerations are not as likely to lead to immediate serious complications like infections as lacerations.

3. A client asks the nurse to call the police and states: 'I need to report that I am being abused by a nurse.' The nurse should first

• A. Focus on reality orientation to place and person
• B. Assist with the report of the client's complaint to the police
• C. Obtain more details of the client's claim of abuse
• D. Document the statement in the client's chart with a report to the manager

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct initial action for the nurse is to obtain more details about the client's claim of abuse. This will help the nurse better understand the situation before proceeding with any further actions. Option A is incorrect as reality orientation is not the priority in this situation. Option B is premature as more details are needed first. Option D is not the immediate step as gathering information should come before documentation and reporting.

4. To auscultate for a carotid bruit, where should the nurse place the stethoscope?

• A. Base of the neck on the right side
• B. Above the clavicle
• C. Over the sternum
• D. Over the trachea

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To auscultate for a carotid bruit, the nurse should place the stethoscope at the base of the neck, near the carotid artery. A carotid bruit is an abnormal sound that indicates turbulent blood flow in the carotid artery, potentially due to arterial narrowing or atherosclerosis. Placing the stethoscope above the clavicle, over the sternum, or over the trachea would not provide the nurse with the optimal location to assess for carotid artery abnormalities.

5. A client with chronic kidney disease has a potassium level of 6.2 mEq/L. Which intervention should the nurse implement?

• A. Encourage the client to eat foods rich in potassium
• B. Administer a potassium-sparing diuretic
• C. Administer a potassium-binding medication
• D. Hold all medications containing potassium

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A potassium level of 6.2 mEq/L indicates hyperkalemia, which is dangerous and requires immediate treatment. Administering a potassium-binding medication will help lower potassium levels and prevent life-threatening complications.

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