Nursing Elites

1. A client with meningitis is being assessed by a healthcare provider. Which of the following findings should the provider expect?

• A. Negative Brudzinski’s sign.
• B. Flaccid neck muscles.
• C. Petechial rash.
• D. Hypoactive deep tendon reflexes.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A petechial rash is a characteristic finding in clients with meningitis, indicating small, pinpoint hemorrhages under the skin. This rash results from the infection's impact on the blood vessels. Petechiae are important to recognize as they can help differentiate meningitis from other conditions with similar symptoms. Brudzinski’s sign, neck stiffness, and positive Kernig’s sign are more common physical exam findings in meningitis. Flaccid neck muscles and hypoactive deep tendon reflexes are not typically associated with meningitis.

2. A healthcare professional is planning to collect a stool specimen for ova and parasites from a client with diarrhea. Which of the following actions should the healthcare professional take when collecting the specimen?

• A. Instruct the client to defecate into a clean container
• B. Transfer the specimen to a sterile container
• C. Refrigerate the collected specimen
• D. Place the stool specimen collection container in a biohazard bag

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When collecting a stool specimen for ova and parasites, it is essential to place the specimen collection container in a biohazard bag. This practice ensures proper handling of potentially infectious material and prevents contamination with microorganisms. The biohazard bag should be labeled with the client's information for easy identification and proper tracking throughout the testing process. Instructing the client to defecate into a clean container is incorrect as it may introduce contaminants. Transferring the specimen to a sterile container is unnecessary and can increase the risk of contamination. Refrigerating the collected specimen is also not recommended as it may alter the sample and affect the test results.

3. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a prescription for digoxin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take your pulse before taking the medication.
• B. Take the medication with an antacid.
• C. Double the dose if you miss one.
• D. Take the medication with a high-fiber meal.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Take your pulse before taking the medication.' When administering digoxin, it is crucial to monitor the pulse rate because digoxin can cause bradycardia (slow heart rate). Checking the pulse helps in assessing the heart rate before taking the medication, as bradycardia is a common side effect of digoxin. Choice B is incorrect because digoxin should not be taken with antacids, as they can reduce its absorption. Choice C is incorrect; the dose should never be doubled if a dose is missed. Choice D is incorrect because taking digoxin with a high-fiber meal can also affect its absorption. Therefore, the essential instruction for the client is to monitor the pulse before taking digoxin.

4. A client with a new diagnosis of cirrhosis is receiving dietary management education from a nurse. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. You should increase your intake of sodium-rich foods.
• B. You should decrease your intake of sodium-rich foods.
• C. You should avoid foods that contain lactose.
• D. You should increase your intake of dairy products.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Reducing the intake of sodium-rich foods is beneficial for managing fluid retention and symptoms of cirrhosis. Excessive sodium can lead to fluid buildup in the body, worsening edema and ascites commonly associated with cirrhosis. Therefore, advising the client to decrease their intake of sodium-rich foods is crucial in the dietary management of cirrhosis. Option A is incorrect as increasing sodium intake would exacerbate fluid retention. Option C is irrelevant to cirrhosis management unless the client has lactose intolerance. Option D is incorrect as increasing dairy product intake may not be suitable for all patients with cirrhosis, especially if they have complications like hepatic encephalopathy.

5. When admitting a client at risk for falls in a long-term care facility, what should the nurse do first?

• A. Complete a fall-risk assessment
• B. Place a fall-risk identification bracelet on the client
• C. Provide the client with nonskid footwear
• D. Set the bed to the lowest position

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The initial step in caring for a client at risk for falls is to conduct a fall-risk assessment. This assessment helps the nurse gather crucial data to identify specific risks and individualized needs, guiding subsequent interventions and preventive measures. By completing a thorough assessment, the nurse can develop a targeted plan of care to mitigate fall risk and ensure the client's safety. Placing a fall-risk identification bracelet, providing nonskid footwear, or setting the bed to the lowest position may be important interventions, but these actions should be based on the findings of the fall-risk assessment, making choice A the priority.

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