Nursing Elites

1. A nurse in the emergency department is caring for a client who reports abrupt, sharp, right-sided lower quadrant abdominal pain and bright red vaginal bleeding. The client states, 'I missed one menstrual cycle and cannot be pregnant because I have an intrauterine device.' The nurse should suspect which of the following?

• A. Missed abortion
• B. Ectopic pregnancy
• C. Severe preeclampsia
• D. Hydatidiform mole

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Ectopic pregnancy should be suspected in clients with abrupt, sharp, right-sided lower quadrant abdominal pain and bright red vaginal bleeding, especially if they have an intrauterine device (IUD). In this case, the client's symptoms are classic for ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, commonly in the fallopian tube. Missed abortion (choice A) refers to a nonviable embryo or fetus in the uterus, which is not consistent with the client's presentation. Severe preeclampsia (choice C) is characterized by hypertension and proteinuria, not the symptoms described. Hydatidiform mole (choice D) presents with vaginal bleeding but typically lacks abdominal pain and is not related to the presence of an IUD.

2. While caring for a newborn undergoing phototherapy to treat hyperbilirubinemia, which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Cover the newborn's eyes with an opaque eye mask while under the phototherapy light.
• B. Keep the newborn in a shirt while under the phototherapy light.
• C. Apply a light moisturizing lotion to the newborn's skin.
• D. Turn and reposition the newborn every 4 hours while undergoing phototherapy.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: It is crucial to cover the newborn's eyes with an opaque eye mask to prevent damage to the retinas and corneas from the phototherapy light. The eyes are particularly sensitive to the light used in phototherapy, and shielding them helps protect the newborn's delicate eyes from potential harm. Choice B is incorrect because the newborn should be undressed to maximize skin exposure to the phototherapy light. Choice C is incorrect because lotions or oils can interfere with the effectiveness of phototherapy. Choice D is incorrect because the newborn should be kept as still as possible to maximize exposure to the light.

3. During the third trimester of pregnancy, which of the following findings should a nurse recognize as an expected physiologic change?

• A. Gradual lordosis
• B. Increased abdominal muscle tone
• C. Posterior neck flexion
• D. Decreased mobility of pelvic joints

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During pregnancy, gradual lordosis is a common adaptation to the growing fetus. Lordosis refers to an increased lumbar curve in the spine, which helps to shift the center of gravity forward, supporting the enlarging uterus. This change is necessary to maintain balance and reduce strain on the back muscles as the pregnancy progresses. Increased abdominal muscle tone, posterior neck flexion, and decreased mobility of pelvic joints are not typical physiological changes during pregnancy. Increased abdominal muscle tone is not expected as the abdominal muscles tend to stretch and separate to accommodate the growing fetus. Posterior neck flexion is not a common finding and decreased mobility of pelvic joints is not an expected change and can cause discomfort.

4. A client who is at 24 weeks of gestation and reports daily mild headaches is being cared for by a nurse. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Administer ibuprofen 400 mg twice daily.
• B. Recommend that the client perform conscious relaxation techniques daily.
• C. Give the client ginseng tea with each meal.
• D. Instruct the client to soak in a bath with a water temperature of 105°F for 15 minutes daily.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Mild headaches during pregnancy can be common and are often related to stress and tension. Recommending conscious relaxation techniques daily can help to relieve tension, reduce stress, and alleviate headaches without the need for medication, which is safer during pregnancy. Choice A is incorrect as ibuprofen is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus. Choice C is incorrect because ginseng tea is not recommended during pregnancy as it may have adverse effects. Choice D is incorrect as soaking in a hot bath with a water temperature of 105°F can raise the body temperature, which is not safe during pregnancy.

5. A client who is at 8 weeks of gestation tells the nurse, 'I am not sure I am happy about being pregnant.' Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• A. I will inform the provider that you are having these feelings.
• B. It is normal to have these feelings during the first few months of pregnancy.
• C. You should be happy that you are going to bring new life into the world.
• D. I am going to make an appointment with the counselor for you to discuss these thoughts.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During the first few months of pregnancy, it is common for individuals to experience mixed feelings due to hormonal changes and the significant life adjustments that come with pregnancy. The nurse's response should acknowledge the client's feelings as normal and provide reassurance rather than dismissive or directive statements. By acknowledging the normalcy of these emotions, the nurse validates the client's experience and offers support during this critical time. Choices A, C, and D are less appropriate. Choice A focuses on informing the provider without addressing the client's emotions directly. Choice C disregards the client's current feelings and imposes a specific emotional response. Choice D jumps to scheduling a counseling appointment without first acknowledging the client's emotions or providing immediate support and validation.

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