Nursing Elites

1. A client with a diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is receiving anticoagulation therapy. Which of the following laboratory values would be most concerning?

• A. INR of 1.5
• B. Platelet count of 200,000/mm³
• C. Hemoglobin of 12 g/dL
• D. aPTT of 70 seconds

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An INR of 1.5 is below the therapeutic range for clients on anticoagulation therapy, increasing the risk of clot formation. A lower INR indicates inadequate anticoagulation, which can lead to thrombus formation and potential complications such as progression or recurrence of deep vein thrombosis. Platelet count, hemoglobin level, and aPTT are important parameters to monitor in a client with DVT. However, in this scenario, the most concerning value is the suboptimal INR level because it signifies a lack of anticoagulation effectiveness and poses a higher risk of clotting issues.

2. A client is being taught about the use of an incentive spirometer. Which statement by the client indicates effective teaching?

• A. I will use the spirometer every hour while awake.
• B. I will blow into the spirometer as hard as I can.
• C. I should feel dizzy when using the spirometer.
• D. I will only use the spirometer if I feel short of breath.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because using the spirometer every hour while awake is an effective way to prevent respiratory complications. This frequency helps in maintaining lung function and preventing atelectasis. Choice B is incorrect because blowing too hard into the spirometer can lead to hyperventilation and dizziness, making choice C also incorrect. Choice D is wrong as waiting to use the spirometer only when feeling short of breath may not provide optimal lung expansion and can lead to respiratory issues.

3. A client is admitted with infective endocarditis (IE). Which symptom would alert the nurse to a complication of this condition?

• A. Dyspnea
• B. Heart murmur
• C. Macular rash
• D. Hemorrhage

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A new or changed heart murmur is a common sign of valve involvement in infective endocarditis, indicating a complication such as valve damage or regurgitation. Dyspnea is more commonly associated with respiratory or cardiac conditions not directly related to infective endocarditis. A macular rash is not a typical symptom of infective endocarditis, suggesting other conditions like infectious diseases. Hemorrhage is not a direct complication of infective endocarditis but may occur due to factors such as anticoagulant therapy or underlying bleeding disorders.

4. A healthcare professional is assessing postoperative circulation of the lower extremities for a client who had knee surgery. The healthcare professional should test which of the following?

• A. Range of motion
• B. Skin color
• C. Edema
• D. Skin temperature

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Assessing skin color is crucial to evaluate perfusion and circulation postoperatively. Skin color changes can indicate compromised circulation, such as pallor or cyanosis. Edema may suggest fluid retention but is not a direct indicator of circulation status. Range of motion is more related to joint function and mobility, not specifically circulation.

5. The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client who has been prescribed an iron supplement. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I should take the supplement with milk to increase absorption.
• B. I should expect my stools to turn black while taking this supplement.
• C. I should take the supplement with a full glass of water.
• D. I should take the supplement on an empty stomach.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Taking an iron supplement with milk can decrease its absorption, indicating a need for further teaching.

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