Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare provider orders a medication dose three times higher than usual. What is the nurse's first step?

• A. Administer the medication but monitor the patient closely.
• B. Verify the dosage with the prescribing provider.
• C. Administer a lower dose to minimize the risk.
• D. Hold the medication and wait for further clarification.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Verify the dosage with the prescribing provider. When faced with an unusual medication dose, the nurse's initial action should be to confirm the order with the healthcare provider who prescribed it. This step is crucial to prevent medication errors and ensure patient safety. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because administering the medication without clarification, administering a lower dose without approval, or holding the medication without consulting the provider can all pose risks to the patient's well-being.

2. A client with severe dyspnea is scheduled for multiple diagnostic tests. Which test should the nurse prioritize?

• A. Administer an echocardiogram first.
• B. Prioritize a chest x-ray for the client.
• C. Prepare the client for a CT scan.
• D. Order an MRI first.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Prioritize a chest x-ray for the client. When a client presents with severe dyspnea, a chest x-ray should be prioritized as it helps in assessing the lungs and heart, which are crucial in cases of respiratory distress. Echocardiograms are more focused on assessing heart function and may not provide immediate information needed in cases of dyspnea. CT scans and MRIs are more detailed imaging studies that are not typically the first-line diagnostic tests for severe dyspnea.

3. A nurse is caring for a client who has diarrhea due to shigella. Which of the following precautions should the nurse take?

• A. Wear gloves only
• B. Wear a mask
• C. Wash hands before and after client care
• D. Use an N95 respirator

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct precaution for a nurse caring for a client with shigella-induced diarrhea is to wash hands before and after client care. Shigella is a highly contagious bacterium that spreads through contaminated food, water, or contact with infected individuals. While wearing gloves is important when directly handling bodily fluids, hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the transmission of the infection. Wearing a mask or using an N95 respirator is not necessary for preventing the spread of shigella, as it primarily spreads through the fecal-oral route rather than through respiratory droplets.

4. A client is administering insulin. Which statement by the client shows proper understanding of insulin administration?

• A. I will inject insulin into my thigh before exercise
• B. I will skip meals to lower blood sugar
• C. I will store my insulin in the freezer
• D. I will rotate injection sites for insulin administration

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because rotating injection sites prevents tissue damage and ensures better absorption of insulin. Option A is incorrect as injecting insulin into the thigh before exercise can lead to hypoglycemia. Option B is incorrect as skipping meals can cause blood sugar levels to drop dangerously low. Option C is incorrect as insulin should not be stored in the freezer as it can alter its effectiveness.

5. What is the most appropriate intervention for a client experiencing acute alcohol withdrawal?

• A. Encourage physical activity to reduce withdrawal symptoms
• B. Administer diazepam to prevent seizures
• C. Monitor for signs of dehydration
• D. Encourage the client to verbalize their feelings

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate intervention for a client experiencing acute alcohol withdrawal is to administer diazepam. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine commonly used to prevent seizures and manage the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Encouraging physical activity may not be safe during acute withdrawal as the client may be at risk for seizures and other complications. Monitoring for signs of dehydration is important but not the most immediate intervention needed in acute alcohol withdrawal. While encouraging the client to verbalize their feelings is beneficial for therapeutic communication, it is not the priority intervention when managing acute alcohol withdrawal.

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