Nursing Elites

1. A client with a history of atrial fibrillation is taking digoxin (Lanoxin). Which finding should the healthcare provider be notified of immediately?

• A. Heart rate of 52 beats per minute
• B. Blood pressure of 110/70 mmHg
• C. Blood glucose level of 180 mg/dL
• D. Potassium level of 4.0 mEq/L

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A heart rate of 52 beats per minute is a critical finding in a client taking digoxin, as it may indicate digoxin toxicity. Digoxin can cause bradycardia as a side effect, and a heart rate of 52 bpm warrants immediate attention to prevent adverse outcomes. Monitoring and reporting changes in heart rate are crucial in clients on digoxin therapy to prevent serious complications. The other vital signs and laboratory values provided are within normal ranges or not directly associated with digoxin toxicity in this scenario, making them lower priority for immediate reporting.

2. A nurse is caring for a client who has terminal lung cancer. The nurse observes the client’s family assisting with all ADLs. Which of the following rationales for self-care should the nurse communicate to the family?

• A. Allowing the client to function independently will strengthen muscles and promote healing.
• B. The client needs privacy at times for self-reflection and organizing life.
• C. The client’s sense of loss can be lessened through retaining control of some areas of life.
• D. Performing ADLs is a requirement prior to discharge from an acute care facility.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. In situations like terminal illness, allowing clients to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) can help maintain their sense of control and dignity, providing comfort and a sense of normalcy amidst their health challenges. Choice A is incorrect because in a terminal stage, the focus is not on muscle strength or promoting physical healing but rather on enhancing the client's emotional well-being. Choice B, while highlighting the importance of privacy, is not directly addressing the client's need for control and autonomy. Choice D is incorrect as the priority in this scenario is not related to discharge requirements but rather the client's emotional and psychological needs during their terminal illness.

3. When providing hygiene for an older-adult patient, why does the nurse closely assess the skin?

• A. Outer skin layer becomes less resilient.
• B. Less frequent bathing may be required.
• C. Skin becomes more subject to bruising.
• D. Sweat glands become less active.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Less frequent bathing may be required.' In older adults, daily bathing or using hot water and harsh soap can lead to excessively dry skin. Therefore, the nurse closely assesses the skin to determine if less frequent bathing is necessary to prevent skin dryness and maintain skin integrity. Choice A is incorrect because the outer skin layer does not become less resilient with age. Choice C is incorrect as aging skin is actually more prone to bruising due to thinning of the skin. Choice D is incorrect because sweat gland activity generally decreases with age, leading to reduced skin moisture rather than increased activity.

4. Postoperatively, signs of hemorrhagic shock are observed. The nurse notifies the surgeon, who instructs to continue monitoring vitals every 15 minutes and report back in one hour. What should the nurse do next?

• A. Notify the nurse manager
• B. Continue monitoring as instructed
• C. Administer IV fluids as per protocol
• D. Prepare for immediate transfer to the ICU

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to continue monitoring the patient as instructed. This is crucial to assess the patient's condition and response to initial interventions. Administering IV fluids or preparing for transfer to the ICU should only be done based on further assessment or explicit orders from the healthcare provider. Notifying the nurse manager, as suggested in choice A, without further assessment or intervention could delay immediate patient care and management.

5. A client is grieving the loss of her partner and expresses thoughts of not wanting to live. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Request additional support for the client from her family.
• B. Ask the client if she plans to harm herself.
• C. Inform the client that feeling this way is a normal response to grief.
• D. Suggest that the client seek counseling for support.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation is to ask the client if she plans to harm herself. This is crucial to assess the client's risk of self-harm or suicide. Providing immediate safety and appropriate interventions is the priority when a client expresses such thoughts. Requesting additional support from the family (Choice A) may be helpful but does not address the immediate safety concern. Informing the client that feeling this way is normal (Choice C) may invalidate her feelings and does not address the safety risk. Suggesting counseling (Choice D) may be beneficial in the long term but is not the immediate priority when assessing for self-harm or suicide risk.

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