Nursing Elites

1. A client with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is receiving warfarin (Coumadin). Which instruction should the nurse provide?

• A. Avoid green leafy vegetables.
• B. Take aspirin for headaches.
• C. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• D. Limit fluid intake to 1 liter per day.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client on warfarin therapy, especially with a history of DVT, is to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. This is crucial to prevent gum bleeding, which is a risk due to the anticoagulant effects of warfarin. Green leafy vegetables are rich in vitamin K, which can interfere with warfarin's effectiveness, so they should be consumed consistently to maintain a balance. Aspirin is not recommended for headaches in clients on warfarin due to the increased risk of bleeding. Limiting fluid intake is not a standard instruction for clients on warfarin therapy.

2. A patient with glaucoma is prescribed timolol eye drops. What is the primary action of this medication?

• A. Reduce intraocular pressure
• B. Dilate the pupils
• C. Constrict the pupils
• D. Enhance tear production

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Timolol eye drops are prescribed to reduce intraocular pressure in patients with glaucoma. By decreasing the pressure within the eye, timolol helps prevent damage to the optic nerve, which is crucial in managing glaucoma and preserving vision. Dilating or constricting the pupils or enhancing tear production are not the primary actions of timolol eye drops.

3. A client with hepatic encephalopathy exhibits confusion, difficulty arousing from sleep, and rigid extremities. Based on these clinical findings, what stage of hepatic encephalopathy should the nurse document?

• A. Stage 1
• B. Stage 2
• C. Stage 3
• D. Stage 4

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Stage 3 hepatic encephalopathy is characterized by confusion, difficulty arousing from sleep, and rigidity of extremities. These symptoms indicate advanced manifestations of hepatic encephalopathy, requiring prompt intervention and monitoring to prevent further neurological deterioration.

4. During the initial assessment of a client with a history of substance abuse admitted for detoxification, which intervention is most important?

• A. Obtain a detailed substance use history.
• B. Establish a trusting nurse-client relationship.
• C. Evaluate the client's physical health status.
• D. Determine the client's readiness for change.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Assessing the client's physical health status is the most critical intervention during the initial assessment of a client with a history of substance abuse admitted for detoxification. This evaluation helps identify and address any immediate health risks, such as withdrawal symptoms or medical complications, to ensure the client's safety and well-being during the detoxification process. Option A, obtaining a detailed substance use history, is important but not the most critical initially. Option B, establishing a trusting nurse-client relationship, is important but assessing physical health takes precedence. Option D, determining the client's readiness for change, is valuable but assessing physical health for immediate risks is the priority.

5. What is the primary goal of care for a client experiencing esophageal varices secondary to liver cirrhosis?

• A. Preventing infection
• B. Controlling bleeding
• C. Reducing portal hypertension
• D. Maintaining nutritional status

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary goal of care for a client with esophageal varices secondary to liver cirrhosis is to control bleeding. Esophageal varices are fragile, enlarged veins in the esophagus that can rupture and lead to life-threatening bleeding. Controlling bleeding is crucial to prevent severe complications and ensure the client's safety and well-being. Preventing infection (Choice A) is important but not the primary goal in this case. Reducing portal hypertension (Choice C) is a long-term goal that may help prevent variceal bleeding but is not the immediate priority. Maintaining nutritional status (Choice D) is essential for overall health but is secondary to controlling bleeding in this critical situation.

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