Nursing Elites

1. A newly diagnosed client with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) comments to the nurse, 'There are so many rotten people around. Why couldn't one of them get HIV instead of me?' Which statement is the nurse's best response?

• A. 'I can understand why you are afraid of dying.'
• B. 'It seems unfair that you contracted this disorder.'
• C. 'Do you really wish this disorder on someone else?'
• D. 'Have you thought of speaking with your religious adviser?'

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The client is expressing feelings of unfairness and questioning why they have HIV. The nurse's best response is to acknowledge the client's emotions. Choice B, 'It seems unfair that you contracted this disorder,' reflects empathy and validates the client's feelings, which can help them move towards acceptance. Choice A, 'I can understand why you are afraid of dying,' introduces the topic of death, which may not be the primary concern at this stage. Choice C, 'Do you really wish this disorder on someone else?' is judgmental and could induce guilt in the client. Choice D, 'Have you thought of speaking with your religious adviser?' deflects the conversation and does not address the client's current emotional needs.

2. A client who exhibits blurred and double vision and muscular weakness is informed of the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS). The client becomes visibly upset. Which response would the nurse make?

• A. That must have shocked you. Tell me what the health care provider told you about it.
• B. You should see a psychiatrist who will help you cope with this overwhelming news.
• C. Don't worry; early treatment often alleviates the symptoms of the disease.
• D. You should be glad that we caught it early so you can be cured.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The response 'That must have shocked you. Tell me what the health care provider told you about it' acknowledges the effect of the diagnosis on the client and explores what is known. This response shows empathy and encourages the client to share their understanding. There is no evidence of ineffective coping, so a referral to a psychiatrist is not necessary at this initial stage. The statement 'Don't worry; early treatment often alleviates symptoms of the disease' provides false reassurance as the course of MS varies for each individual and may not always respond well to treatment. The statement 'You should be glad we caught it early so it can be cured' does not address the client's current emotional state and is inaccurate; MS is a chronic autoimmune disease that currently has no cure.

3. Which of the following actions is most appropriate when working with a client who is extremely angry?

• A. Place a light hand on the client's shoulder to convey understanding
• B. Maintain close proximity to build trust
• C. Temporarily change the subject if the client's behavior is escalating
• D. Close the door to the room to ensure privacy

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When dealing with an angry client, it is crucial to employ techniques that can help de-escalate the situation or ensure safety while providing care. If the client's behavior is escalating or they are fixating on a particular topic that is fueling their anger, it is advisable to temporarily change the subject. This technique can serve as a distraction from the initial trigger, allowing the client to refocus their thoughts and emotions. Placing a hand on the client's shoulder may not be well-received as physical touch can escalate the situation. Maintaining close proximity might be perceived as confrontational rather than building trust. Closing the door for privacy is important but may not directly address the client's anger or help in de-escalation.

4. When emptying 350 mL of pale yellow urine from a client's urinal, the nurse notes that this is the first time the client has voided in 4 hours. Which action should the nurse take next?

• A. Record the amount on the client's fluid output record.
• B. Encourage the client to increase oral fluid intake.
• C. Notify the healthcare provider of the findings.
• D. Palpate the client's bladder for distention.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take next is to record the amount of urine output on the client's fluid output record. The urine color and volume are within normal limits, indicating adequate hydration. There is no indication of a need to encourage increased oral fluid intake or notify the healthcare provider as the findings are normal. Palpating the client's bladder for distention is unnecessary in this scenario since the client has successfully voided a normal amount of urine after 4 hours.

5. A client diagnosed with sexual dysfunction states, 'Well, I guess my sex life is over.' Which response would the nurse use as a reply?

• A. I'm sorry to hear that.'
• B. 'Oh, you have a lot of good years left.'
• C. 'You are concerned about your sex life?'
• D. 'Have you asked your primary health care provider about that?'

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The response 'You are concerned about your sex life?' explores the meaning of the statement and allows further expression of concern. It shows empathy and encourages the client to elaborate on their feelings. Choice A, 'I'm sorry to hear that,' does not prompt the client to share more about their concerns and may close off communication. Choice B, 'Oh, you have a lot of good years left,' lacks empathy and understanding of the client's emotions, diverting the focus from the client's feelings. Choice D, 'Have you asked your primary health care provider about that?' shifts the responsibility away from the nurse and may not address the client's emotional needs, potentially making them feel dismissed or embarrassed to seek help.

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