Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is assessing a client who has asthma. Which of the following areas should the nurse evaluate as the most reliable indicator of central cyanosis?

• A. Oral mucosa
• B. Conjunctivae
• C. Soles of the feet
• D. Ear lobes

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Central cyanosis is best assessed by examining the oral mucosa, as it is a more reliable indicator compared to other areas like the conjunctivae, soles of the feet, and ear lobes. The oral mucosa reflects the oxygen saturation levels of the blood more accurately. Conjunctivae and ear lobes may show cyanosis, but they are not as reliable as the oral mucosa. The soles of the feet are not typically used to assess central cyanosis.

2. Which action by a nurse demonstrates effective communication with a patient?

• A. Providing the patient with written information about their care.
• B. Maintaining eye contact and listening actively to the patient.
• C. Using medical jargon to explain the patient's condition.
• D. Speaking with the patient in a hurried manner to save time.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Maintaining eye contact and actively listening to the patient is crucial in effective communication as it helps build rapport, shows empathy, and ensures that the patient feels heard and understood. Providing written information can be helpful, but the direct interaction is essential for effective communication. Using medical jargon may confuse the patient instead of clarifying their condition. Speaking hurriedly can make the patient feel rushed and not valued, hindering effective communication.

3. A client expresses concern about hair loss during chemotherapy. What should the nurse suggest?

• A. Encourage the client to cut their hair short before chemotherapy begins.
• B. Offer resources for wigs and head coverings.
• C. Assure the client that hair loss will be minimal.
• D. Ignore the client's concerns about hair loss.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During chemotherapy, hair loss is a common side effect. Offering resources for wigs and head coverings can help the client cope with this change in appearance, maintain self-esteem, and feel more comfortable during the process. Encouraging the client to cut their hair short does not address the emotional impact of hair loss and may not be the client's preference. Assuring the client that hair loss will be minimal may provide false hope as significant hair loss is a common occurrence. Ignoring the client's concerns is not appropriate and goes against the principles of providing holistic and compassionate care.

4. A nurse in an emergency department is preparing a change-of-shift report for an adult client who is transferring to a medical-surgical unit using the SBAR communication tool. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the report?

• A. The client has a do-not-resuscitate order.
• B. The client has a continuous IV of lactated Ringer's.
• C. The client was straight catheterized for 350 mL 2 hours ago.
• D. The client has Medicare insurance.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In an SBAR report, key information such as the client's do-not-resuscitate (DNR) status should be included as it directly impacts the client's care and treatment plan. Choices B and C are important details but may not be as critical for immediate care planning during the shift change. Choice D, the client having Medicare insurance, is important for billing purposes but does not directly impact the client's immediate care needs.

5. A nurse is preparing to administer a high dose of morphine to a patient with terminal cancer. What is the nurse's primary consideration before administration?

• A. Ensure the family is aware of the dosage to be administered.
• B. Monitor the patient for respiratory depression.
• C. Administer the morphine in divided doses.
• D. Delay administration until the next assessment.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitor the patient for respiratory depression. When administering a high dose of morphine, the nurse's primary consideration should be to monitor the patient for respiratory depression, as morphine can slow down breathing, especially in higher doses. Option A is incorrect because the primary focus should be on the patient's well-being and safety rather than family awareness at this point. Option C is not the best approach as the immediate concern is monitoring the patient closely for any adverse effects. Option D is not advisable as delaying administration without a valid reason can compromise pain management in a terminal cancer patient.

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