Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is assessing a client who has meningitis. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider immediately?

• A. Generalized rash over trunk
• B. Increased temperature
• C. Decreased level of consciousness
• D. Report of photophobia

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Decreased level of consciousness. In a client with meningitis, a decreased level of consciousness is a critical finding that should be reported immediately. This could indicate increased intracranial pressure or neurological deterioration, requiring prompt intervention. Choices A, B, and D are important in the assessment of meningitis but are not as immediately concerning as a decreased level of consciousness. A generalized rash over the trunk can be seen in meningococcal meningitis, an increased temperature is expected due to the inflammatory response, and photophobia is a common symptom due to meningeal irritation.

2. A nurse is reviewing laboratory results and notes that a client's serum sodium level is 150 mEq/L. The nurse reports the serum sodium level to the physician, and the physician prescribes dietary instructions based on the sodium level. Which food item should the nurse instruct the client to avoid?

• A. Peas
• B. Cauliflower
• C. Low-fat yogurt
• D. Processed oat cereals

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is processed oat cereals. Processed oat cereals are often high in sodium content, which should be avoided in cases of hypernatremia. Peas, cauliflower, and low-fat yogurt are generally low in sodium and are not typically contraindicated in hypernatremia. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect.

3. A patient's serum potassium level is 2.2 mEq/L. Which nursing action is the highest priority for this patient?

• A. Start oxygen at 2 L/min
• B. Initiate cardiac monitoring
• C. Initiate seizure precautions
• D. Keep the patient on bed rest

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to initiate cardiac monitoring. Severe hypokalemia can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias, making cardiac monitoring the priority to detect and manage any cardiac complications. Starting oxygen, seizure precautions, or bed rest are not the immediate priority actions for severe hypokalemia.

4. A nurse in a long-term care facility is caring for a client who reports the AP repositioned him in bed using excessive force. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Document in the client's chart that an incident report has been filed.
• B. Contact the nurse manager.
• C. Reassure the client that the staff is well trained.
• D. Call risk management to interview the client.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation is to contact the nurse manager. By doing so, the nurse can escalate the issue appropriately, ensuring that the incident is addressed and necessary actions are taken. Documenting in the client's chart that an incident report has been filed (Choice A) may be necessary but should not be the first step. Reassuring the client that the staff is well trained (Choice C) does not address the client's concern and the need for intervention. Calling risk management to interview the client (Choice D) may be premature at this stage and should be handled by the nurse manager first.

5. A nurse is assessing a client who is postoperative following a left leg below-the-knee amputation. Which of the following client statements indicates the potential need for a referral to an occupational therapist?

• A. I hope I can adjust to using crutches while I am recovering.
• B. I am worried about taking care of my toddler at home.
• C. I just don't think I can handle looking at my leg.
• D. I am not sure how I will pay for all the therapy I will need.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The client's statement about adjusting to using crutches while recovering suggests a potential need for occupational therapy referral. Occupational therapists assist individuals in regaining independence in activities of daily living, including mobility aids and adaptations. Choices B, C, and D are more indicative of emotional or financial concerns and may require referrals to other healthcare professionals like counselors or financial advisors, rather than occupational therapists.

Similar Questions