Nursing Elites

1. A client's infusion of normal saline infiltrated earlier today, and approximately 500 ml of saline infused into the subcutaneous tissue. The client is now complaining of excruciating arm pain and demanding 'stronger pain medications.' What initial action is most important for the LPN/LVN to take?

• A. Ask about any past history of drug abuse or addiction.
• B. Measure the pulse volume and capillary refill distal to the infiltration.
• C. Compress the infiltrated tissue to measure the degree of edema.
• D. Evaluate the extent of ecchymosis over the forearm area.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most important initial action for the LPN/LVN to take in this situation is to measure the pulse volume and capillary refill distal to the infiltration. This assessment helps evaluate the severity of the infiltration and the circulation in the affected arm. Asking about past history of drug abuse or addiction (Choice A) is not the priority when addressing acute arm pain and infiltration. Compressing the infiltrated tissue (Choice C) may exacerbate the pain and is not recommended as the first step. Evaluating the extent of ecchymosis (Choice D) is not as critical as assessing the circulation in the affected arm, which is better addressed by measuring pulse volume and capillary refill.

2. An assistive personnel (AP) is assisting a nurse with the care of a female client who has an indwelling urinary catheter. Which of the following actions by the AP indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. The AP hangs the collection bag below the level of the bladder.
• B. The AP performs hand hygiene before handling the catheter.
• C. The AP secures the catheter to the client’s leg with tape.
• D. The AP empties the collection bag when it is full.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hanging the collection bag below the level of the bladder is the correct technique for maintaining proper drainage and preventing backflow in a client with an indwelling urinary catheter. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer as it indicates a need for further teaching. Choices B, C, and D demonstrate appropriate actions in catheter care. Performing hand hygiene before handling the catheter helps prevent infection, securing the catheter to the client’s leg with tape prevents accidental dislodgement, and emptying the collection bag when it is full ensures that the catheter functions effectively.

3. A client with Parkinson's disease is being discharged. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I will take my medication at the same time every day.
• B. I will increase my fiber intake to prevent constipation.
• C. I will perform range of motion exercises to maintain mobility.
• D. I will stop taking my medication if I feel better.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Patients with Parkinson's disease should not stop taking their medication if they feel better, as doing so can worsen symptoms. It is crucial for patients to continue their prescribed medication regimen as directed by their healthcare provider. Choices A, B, and C are all appropriate actions that promote the well-being of a client with Parkinson's disease. Choice A emphasizes medication adherence, which is vital for symptom management. Choice B addresses a common issue in Parkinson's patients and shows an understanding of the importance of dietary management. Choice C highlights the significance of physical activity in maintaining mobility, which is essential for overall quality of life in Parkinson's disease.

4. A healthcare provider is witnessing a client sign an informed consent form for surgery. Which of the following describes what the healthcare provider is affirming by this action?

• A. The signature on the preoperative consent form is the client’s
• B. The client understands the risks of the surgery
• C. The client is aware of all postoperative care instructions
• D. The client has no further questions about the surgery

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. When a healthcare provider witnesses a client signing an informed consent form for surgery, they are affirming that the signature on the form belongs to the client. This is crucial for ensuring patient autonomy and informed decision-making. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while it is important for the client to understand the risks of surgery, be aware of postoperative care instructions, and have an opportunity to ask questions, these elements are not specifically affirmed by the healthcare provider witnessing the signature.

5. During an abdominal examination, a nurse in a provider’s office determines that a client has abdominal distention. The protrusion is at midline, the skin over the area is taut, and the nurse notes no involvement of the flanks. Which of the following possible causes of distention should the nurse suspect?

• A. Fat
• B. Fluid
• C. Flatus
• D. Hernias

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Hernias.' Abdominal distention with a midline protrusion, taut skin, and no involvement of the flanks is characteristic of hernias. Hernias are caused by a weakness in the abdominal wall, allowing organs or tissues to protrude through. Fluid accumulation (ascites) typically presents with a more generalized distention, while fat accumulation may cause more diffuse distension rather than a focal midline protrusion. Flatus, or gas, would not typically present with a visible midline protrusion and taut skin like hernias.

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