Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is assessing a client who reports pain at the site of a peripheral IV. The site is red and warm. What is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Flush the IV line with saline
• B. Discontinue the IV infusion
• C. Apply a cold compress
• D. Increase the IV flow rate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the IV infusion. The signs of redness and warmth at the IV site indicate phlebitis, an inflammation of the vein. Discontinuing the IV infusion is crucial to prevent further complications such as infection or thrombosis. Flushing the IV line with saline would not address the underlying issue of phlebitis. Applying a cold compress may provide temporary relief but does not address the cause. Increasing the IV flow rate can exacerbate the inflammation and should be avoided.

2. A nurse is preparing to perform an abdominal assessment on a client. Which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Percuss the abdomen
• B. Inspect the abdomen
• C. Auscultate before palpation
• D. Palpate the abdomen

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate before palpation. This ensures that bowel sounds are not altered by physical manipulation. Inspecting the abdomen is a valid step but not the first. Percussing and palpating should come after auscultation to prevent altering bowel sounds or causing discomfort to the client.

3. A nurse in an acute care facility is caring for a client who is postop following abdominal surgery. Which behavior should the nurse identify as increasing the client's risk for constipation?

• A. Increased physical activity
• B. Frequent urge suppression
• C. Increased fiber intake
• D. Decreased fluid intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Frequent urge suppression can lead to constipation, especially postoperatively. Suppressing the urge to defecate can disrupt normal bowel movements and result in constipation. Increased physical activity, increased fiber intake, and adequate fluid intake are measures that typically help prevent constipation by promoting bowel regularity and preventing stool hardening. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are not behaviors that increase the client's risk for constipation.

4. A client expresses anxiety about an upcoming surgery. What should the nurse do?

• A. Administer a sedative
• B. Ask the client to describe their feelings
• C. Call the surgeon to address the anxiety
• D. Provide information on post-op care

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client expresses anxiety, it is essential for the nurse to encourage the client to verbalize their feelings. This helps the client express concerns, fears, and uncertainties, enabling the nurse to provide appropriate emotional support. Administering a sedative (Choice A) should not be the initial response as it does not address the underlying emotional needs of the client. Calling the surgeon to address anxiety (Choice C) may not be within the nurse's scope of practice and may not directly address the client's emotional needs. Providing information on post-op care (Choice D) is important but not the priority when the client is experiencing anxiety preoperatively.

5. A client who is postoperative following abdominal surgery is at risk for constipation due to which behavior?

• A. Increased fiber intake
• B. Decreased fluid intake
• C. Frequent urge suppression
• D. Increased physical activity

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Postoperative clients are at risk for constipation due to various factors, including decreased fluid intake. Insufficient fluid consumption can lead to hardening of stools, making them difficult to pass. Increased fiber intake (choice A) is actually beneficial for preventing constipation as it adds bulk to the stool. Frequent urge suppression (choice C) can contribute to constipation by disrupting normal bowel habits. Increased physical activity (choice D) generally helps promote bowel movements and reduce the risk of constipation.

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