Nursing Elites

1. A client with a large pleural effusion undergoes a thoracentesis. Following the procedure, which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?

• A. The client has asymmetrical chest wall expansion
• B. The client complains of pain at the insertion site
• C. The client's chest x-ray indicates decreased pleural effusion
• D. The client's arterial blood gases show pH 7.35, PaO2 85, PaCO2 35, HCO3 26

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Asymmetrical chest wall expansion is a critical finding post-thoracentesis as it may suggest a pneumothorax, requiring immediate intervention to prevent further complications. The other options, such as pain at the insertion site (Choice B), decreased pleural effusion on chest x-ray (Choice C), and normal arterial blood gases within acceptable ranges (Choice D) do not indicate an immediate need for intervention like asymmetrical chest wall expansion does.

2. The nurse is planning care for a family whose children did not receive childhood immunizations. After one of the children contracted mumps, the father is diagnosed with orchitis. Which intervention should be included in the father's plan of care?

• A. Use of bedrest with scrotal support
• B. Administration of antibiotics for 10 days
• C. Applying heat to promote the healing process
• D. Using an ice pack to reduce scrotal pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: For orchitis, the recommended intervention is bedrest with scrotal support. This helps reduce swelling and discomfort in the scrotum. Antibiotics are generally not required for viral orchitis, so administering antibiotics for 10 days (Choice B) is not indicated. Applying heat (Choice C) may worsen swelling and should be avoided. Using an ice pack (Choice D) is not the preferred method for managing orchitis; it may not be as effective as providing support and rest for the scrotum.

3. In preparing a care plan for a client admitted with a diagnosis of Guillain-Barre syndrome, which nursing problem has the highest priority?

• A. Ineffective coping related to uncertainty of disease progression
• B. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements related to impaired swallowing reflex
• C. Ineffective breathing pattern related to ascending paralysis
• D. Impaired physical mobility related to asymmetrical descending paralysis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ineffective breathing pattern is the highest priority nursing problem for a client with Guillain-Barre syndrome due to the potential risk of respiratory failure. As the paralysis ascends, it can affect the muscles needed for breathing, leading to respiratory compromise. Addressing this problem promptly is crucial to prevent respiratory distress and failure. Choices A, B, and D are also important nursing problems in Guillain-Barre syndrome, but ensuring effective breathing takes precedence over coping, nutrition, and mobility due to the immediate threat it poses to the client's life.

4. To manage the client’s constipation, which suggestions should the nurse provide? (Select all that apply)

• A. Decrease laxative use to every other day and use oil retention enemas as needed.
• B. Include oatmeal with stewed prunes for breakfast as often as possible.
• C. Increase fluid intake by keeping a water glass next to the recliner.
• D. Recommend seeking help with regular shopping and meal preparation.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Increasing fluid intake is essential for managing constipation. Adequate hydration helps soften stool and promotes bowel movements. Choices A and B are incorrect as decreasing laxative use without medical advice and suggesting specific foods like oatmeal with stewed prunes may not be suitable for every individual with constipation. Choice D is also incorrect as while seeking help with meal preparation can indirectly aid in managing constipation, the immediate need is to increase fluid intake.

5. The nurse is measuring the output of an infant admitted for vomiting and diarrhea. During a 12-hour shift, the infant drinks 4 ounces of Pedialyte, vomits 25 ml, and voids twice. The dry diaper weighs 105 grams. Which computer documentation should the nurse enter in the infant’s record?

• A. Subtract vomitus from 120 ml Pedialyte, then document 95 ml oral intake.
• B. Compare the difference between the infant’s current weight and admission weight.
• C. Document on the flow sheet that the infant voided twice and vomited 25 ml.
• D. Calculate the difference in wet and dry diapers and document 80 ml urine.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to document on the flow sheet that the infant voided twice and vomited 25 ml. This choice accurately reflects the need for accurate documentation of intake and output, essential for monitoring the infant's hydration status. Choice A is incorrect because the oral intake should not be calculated by subtracting vomitus from the oral intake. Choice B is incorrect because it does not address the specific documentation related to the infant's output. Choice D is incorrect as it focuses on calculating urine output based on diaper weight, which is not the primary concern in this scenario.

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