Nursing Elites

1. A client with osteoporosis is prescribed alendronate (Fosamax). What instruction should the LPN/LVN provide to the client?

• A. Take the medication with a full glass of water.
• B. Take the medication at bedtime.
• C. Take the medication with food.
• D. Take the medication on an empty stomach.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed alendronate (Fosamax) is to take the medication with a full glass of water. Alendronate can cause irritation to the esophagus, so it is important to take it with a full glass of water and remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication to help prevent this irritation. Taking the medication at bedtime (choice B) may increase the risk of esophageal irritation as lying down can allow the medication to remain in the esophagus longer. Taking the medication with food (choice C) or on an empty stomach (choice D) can also interfere with the absorption of alendronate, reducing its effectiveness in treating osteoporosis.

2. The charge nurse on the unit observes that one of the staff nurses is not using proper hand washing techniques. Which is the most appropriate initial approach to correct the behavior?

• A. Remind the nurse that proper hand washing prevents infection
• B. Discuss what the nurse knows about proper hand hygiene
• C. Provide a review of the hand washing policy
• D. Refer the nurse to the infection control nurse

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate initial approach to correct the behavior of improper hand washing by a staff nurse is to discuss what the nurse knows about proper hand hygiene. This approach helps in identifying any knowledge gaps the nurse may have and provides an opportunity to educate and correct the behavior. Option A is not the best choice as simply reminding the nurse about the importance of hand washing may not address the underlying issue of knowledge or technique. Option C, providing a review of the hand washing policy, may be necessary but is not the most immediate step to take. Option D, referring the nurse to the infection control nurse, is premature and may not be necessary if the issue can be resolved through education and communication first.

3. The nurse is providing oral care to a patient. In which order will the nurse clean the oral cavity, starting with the first area?

• A. Roof of mouth, gums, and inside cheeks
• B. Chewing and inner tooth surfaces
• C. Outer tooth surfaces
• D. Tongue

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct sequence for oral care is to clean the outer tooth surfaces first, followed by cleaning the inner tooth surfaces, then the roof of the mouth, gums, and inside cheeks with a toothette. Brushing the tongue should be the final step in the oral care procedure. Therefore, option C is the correct choice. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not follow the correct order for providing oral care to a patient.

4. A client is admitted with a diagnosis of Guillain-Barre syndrome. Which assessment finding is most concerning?

• A. Loss of reflexes in the legs
• B. Decreased peripheral sensation
• C. Respiratory distress
• D. Muscle weakness in the arms

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Respiratory distress. In Guillain-Barre syndrome, respiratory distress is the most concerning finding as it can indicate progression to respiratory failure, which is a life-threatening complication. Loss of reflexes in the legs and muscle weakness in the arms are common manifestations of the condition but may not be as immediately life-threatening as respiratory distress. Decreased peripheral sensation is also a common symptom but is not as critical as respiratory distress in terms of immediate patient safety and management.

5. The healthcare professional is evaluating the body alignment of a patient in the sitting position. Which observation will indicate a normal finding?

• A. The edge of the seat is making contact with the popliteal space.
• B. Both feet are supported on the floor with ankles flexed.
• C. The body weight is solely on the buttocks.
• D. The arms hang comfortably at the sides.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a normal sitting position, both feet should be supported on the floor with the ankles comfortably flexed. This position helps in maintaining stability and proper alignment. Choice A is incorrect because the edge of the seat pressing against the popliteal space may cause discomfort and is not indicative of proper alignment. Choice C is incorrect as the body weight should be evenly distributed for proper alignment and comfort, not solely on the buttocks. Choice D is incorrect as the position of the arms alone does not indicate proper body alignment in the sitting position; proper arm positioning is important for comfort but not a key indicator of body alignment.

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