Nursing Elites

1. What is the most important instruction for the nurse to provide a client with a new colostomy regarding stoma care?

• A. Cleanse the stoma with hydrogen peroxide and water.
• B. Apply a moisture barrier cream to the peristomal skin.
• C. Measure the stoma using a stoma guide.
• D. Use a dry gauze pad to clean the stoma.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Measuring the stoma using a stoma guide (C) is crucial as it ensures that the appliance fits properly, which is essential for preventing skin irritation and leakage. Proper measurement helps in selecting the right size of the appliance, promoting comfort and optimal stoma care. In contrast, cleansing with hydrogen peroxide (A), applying a moisture barrier cream (B), and using a dry gauze pad (D) are important but not as critical as ensuring the correct fit of the stoma appliance.

2. During the assessment, a client receiving a continuous infusion of heparin for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is found to have a nosebleed. Which finding requires immediate action?

• A. The client's activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is 70 seconds.
• B. The client has developed a nosebleed.
• C. The client's blood pressure is 150/90 mm Hg.
• D. The client reports feeling lightheaded.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A nosebleed (B) in a client receiving heparin is a sign of heparin toxicity and requires immediate action. It indicates that the client is at risk of excessive bleeding. While a prolonged aPTT of 70 seconds (A) is worth monitoring, active bleeding takes precedence. Elevated blood pressure (C) and lightheadedness (D) are potential side effects of heparin but are not as urgently concerning as active bleeding.

3. A client with a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is receiving oxygen via nasal cannula at 4 liters per minute. Which assessment finding indicates a need for immediate action?

• A. The client's respiratory rate is 14 breaths per minute.
• B. The client's oxygen saturation is 92%.
• C. The client reports shortness of breath.
• D. The client's respiratory rate is 24 breaths per minute.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A report of shortness of breath (C) indicates that the client is not tolerating the oxygen therapy well and may need an adjustment. Shortness of breath is a critical symptom in a client with COPD, as it signifies potential respiratory distress. A respiratory rate of 14 (A) is within an acceptable range for a client with COPD and does not require immediate action. An oxygen saturation of 92% (B) is slightly lower but still acceptable in COPD patients. Although a respiratory rate of 24 (D) is higher, it is not as immediately concerning as shortness of breath in this context.

4. What intervention should the healthcare provider include in the plan of care for a client receiving treatment with an Unna's paste boot for leg ulcers due to chronic venous insufficiency?

• A. Check capillary refill of toes on the lower extremity with the Unna's paste boot.
• B. Apply dressing to the wound area before applying the Unna's paste boot.
• C. Wrap the leg from the knee down towards the foot.
• D. Remove the Unna's paste boot every 8 hours to assess wound healing.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When an Unna's paste boot is applied for leg ulcers due to chronic venous insufficiency, it is crucial to check the capillary refill of the toes on the lower extremity to ensure adequate circulation. The Unna's paste boot can become rigid after drying, potentially affecting circulation distally. Monitoring capillary refill helps assess the perfusion status of the distal extremity and ensures that the treatment is not compromising circulation to the toes.

5. While instructing a male client's wife in the performance of passive range-of-motion exercises to his contracted shoulder, the nurse observes that she is holding his arm above and below the elbow. What nursing action should the nurse implement?

• A. Acknowledge that she is supporting the arm correctly.
• B. Encourage her to keep the joint uncovered to maintain warmth.
• C. Reinforce the need to grip directly under the joint for better support.
• D. Instruct her to grip directly over the joint for better motion.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The wife is correctly performing the passive range-of-motion exercises by holding the arm above and below the elbow. The nurse should acknowledge this correct technique (A). It is essential to keep the joint uncovered (B) during exercises, while ensuring the rest of the body remains covered for warmth and privacy. Choices (C) and (D) do not provide optimal support to the joint for effective movement.

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