Nursing Elites

1. A client with a diagnosis of myocardial infarction (MI) is being treated. Which laboratory value would be most concerning?

• A. Troponin level of 0.5 ng/mL
• B. Creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) of 5.0 ng/mL
• C. Serum potassium of 4.5 mEq/L
• D. Blood glucose of 180 mg/dL

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A troponin level of 0.5 ng/mL is elevated, indicating myocardial damage, making it the most concerning finding in a client with a myocardial infarction (MI). Troponin is a highly specific marker for cardiac muscle damage, and elevated levels suggest ongoing injury to the heart muscle. While Creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) is also a cardiac enzyme, troponin is more specific and sensitive for myocardial damage. Serum potassium and blood glucose levels are important parameters to monitor in MI patients, but in this scenario, the elevated troponin level takes precedence as it directly reflects cardiac injury.

2. A nurse is caring for two clients who report following the same religion. Which of the following information should the nurse consider when planning care for these clients?

• A. Members of the same religion may have varying feelings about their religion.
• B. A shared religion background does not guarantee identical beliefs.
• C. The same religious beliefs can influence individuals differently.
• D. Discussing differences and commonalities in beliefs may not always be relevant.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Religious beliefs can vary widely even among individuals of the same faith. It is essential for the nurse to recognize that the impact and interpretation of religious beliefs can differ from person to person. Choice A is incorrect as individuals within the same religion can have diverse feelings and interpretations. Choice B is incorrect because a shared religious background does not necessarily mean that individuals hold the same beliefs. Choice D is not the best course of action as discussing differences and commonalities in beliefs may not always be necessary or appropriate for providing care.

3. A nurse is caring for a client who has a new prescription for tube feeding. The nurse understands that the provider prescribed tube feeding because the client:

• A. Is unable to swallow foods by mouth
• B. Has a gastrointestinal obstruction
• C. Requires additional caloric intake to support healing
• D. Is at risk for aspiration

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Is unable to swallow foods by mouth.' Tube feeding is prescribed when a client is unable to safely swallow food by mouth but has a functional gastrointestinal tract. Option B, 'Has a gastrointestinal obstruction,' is incorrect as tube feeding is not typically prescribed for this reason. Option C, 'Requires additional caloric intake to support healing,' is incorrect because tube feeding is specifically for clients who are unable to swallow. Option D, 'Is at risk for aspiration,' is also incorrect as tube feeding would not be the primary intervention for aspiration risk; other strategies to reduce aspiration risk would be implemented instead.

4. A client is being treated for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which laboratory value would be most concerning?

• A. Blood glucose of 350 mg/dL
• B. Serum bicarbonate of 18 mEq/L
• C. Arterial pH of 7.20
• D. Serum potassium of 5.5 mEq/L

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a client with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the most concerning laboratory value is an arterial pH of 7.20. An arterial pH of 7.20 indicates severe acidosis, which is a critical condition requiring immediate intervention. This pH level reflects a significant imbalance in the body's acid-base status, potentially leading to serious complications. High blood glucose levels (choice A) are expected in DKA but do not directly indicate the severity of acidosis. A serum bicarbonate level of 18 mEq/L (choice B) is low but not as immediately critical as a pH of 7.20. Serum potassium of 5.5 mEq/L (choice D) is elevated, which can occur in DKA due to insulin deficiency, but it is not the most concerning value in this scenario.

5. A caregiver of an immobile client requiring assistance with repositioning is being taught by a nurse on preventing back strain. Which statement by the caregiver indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will place the bed in the lowest position
• B. I will tighten my abdominal muscles prior to moving
• C. I will keep my legs straight to provide more power in the lift
• D. I will twist at the waist while pulling the draw sheet

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Tightening the abdominal muscles before moving helps protect the back by providing core support. Keeping the legs straight (choice C) is incorrect as bending the legs is recommended to provide a stable base and prevent strain on the back. Twisting at the waist (choice D) while moving can cause back injury due to the strain on the spine. Placing the bed in the lowest position (choice A) is not directly related to preventing back strain during client repositioning, although it may be necessary for other reasons.

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