Nursing Elites

1. In an emergency department, a provider is assessing a client with an acute head injury following a motor-vehicle crash. Which of the following findings should be prioritized?

• A. A Glasgow Coma Scale score of 13
• B. Clear fluid leaking from the nose
• C. Nausea and vomiting
• D. Anisocoria

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority finding is the clear fluid leaking from the nose, which could indicate a cerebrospinal fluid leak and potential brain injury. This requires immediate attention to assess for possible cerebrospinal fluid leak, which is a serious complication of head trauma and needs prompt intervention to prevent further complications. While a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 13 may indicate a mild alteration in consciousness, it is not as urgent as assessing for a cerebrospinal fluid leak. Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms after head injuries but do not take precedence over assessing for a potential cerebrospinal fluid leak. Anisocoria (unequal pupils) is also important to note but is not as urgent as identifying a possible cerebrospinal fluid leak in this scenario.

2. A client has a prescription for a soft diet. Which of the following foods should the nurse offer?

• A. Fresh apples
• B. Mashed potatoes
• C. Raw carrots
• D. Nuts

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client is on a soft diet, it is important to offer foods that are easy to chew and swallow. Mashed potatoes are a suitable choice for a soft diet as they are soft in texture and easy to digest. Fresh apples, raw carrots, and nuts are harder and may not be appropriate for a soft diet. Fresh apples and raw carrots require more chewing, and nuts are hard and crunchy, which can be difficult for someone on a soft diet to consume. Therefore, mashed potatoes are the correct option for a client on a soft diet.

3. A client has a new prescription for total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

• A. Obtain a random blood glucose daily.
• B. Change the IV tubing every 72 hours.
• C. Apply a new dressing to the IV site every 24 hours.
• D. Weigh the client weekly.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a client is on total parenteral nutrition (TPN), monitoring blood glucose levels daily is crucial to manage and detect complications like hyperglycemia, which can occur due to the high glucose content in TPN solutions. Regular blood glucose monitoring helps the healthcare team adjust the TPN infusion rate to maintain optimal glucose levels and prevent adverse events. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because changing IV tubing every 72 hours, applying a new dressing to the IV site every 24 hours, and weighing the client weekly are not specific actions directly related to monitoring and managing the effects of TPN, particularly in relation to glucose levels.

4. When preparing to insert an NG tube for a client who requires gastric decompression, which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Position the client with the head of the bed elevated to 30° prior to insertion
• B. Measure the tube from the client's nose to the earlobe to the xiphoid process
• C. Lubricate the entire length of the tube with water-soluble lubricant
• D. Instruct the client to cough during insertion

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Measuring the tube from the client's nose to the earlobe to the xiphoid process ensures the tube is inserted to the correct depth. This measurement helps prevent complications such as tube misplacement or lung insertion. Positioning the client with the head of the bed elevated to 30° is important to facilitate easier insertion but is not the most crucial step. Lubricating the entire length of the tube with water-soluble lubricant is essential for smooth insertion but is not the most critical action. Instructing the client to cough during insertion is not necessary and may lead to unnecessary discomfort.

5. What action should a healthcare provider take for a client with a new colostomy?

• A. Empty the colostomy bag when it is half full.
• B. Place aspirin in the colostomy bag to decrease odor.
• C. Use sterile technique when caring for the stoma.
• D. Change the pouch every 8 hours.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Emptying the colostomy bag when it is half full is crucial to prevent leakage and detachment from the skin. This practice helps to maintain the integrity of the colostomy system, reducing the risk of skin irritation and odor. It is essential for client comfort and overall stoma care.

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