Nursing Elites

1. While assessing several clients in a long-term health care facility, which client is at the highest risk for developing decubitus ulcers?

• A. A 79-year-old malnourished client on bed rest
• B. An obese client who uses a wheelchair
• C. A client who had 3 incontinent diarrhea stools
• D. An 80-year-old ambulatory diabetic client

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: A 79-year-old malnourished client on bed rest. This client is at the highest risk for developing decubitus ulcers due to poor nutrition and immobility. Malnutrition can impair tissue healing and increase susceptibility to skin breakdown, while prolonged bed rest can lead to pressure ulcers. Choice B is incorrect because obesity can cushion pressure points and reduce the risk of pressure ulcers. Choice C is incorrect as incontinence predisposes to moisture-associated skin damage rather than pressure ulcers. Choice D is incorrect as an ambulatory client is less likely to develop pressure ulcers compared to bedridden clients.

2. A client with heart failure has a prescription for digoxin. The nurse is aware that sufficient potassium should be included in the diet because hypokalemia in combination with this medication:

• A. Can predispose to dysrhythmias
• B. May lead to oliguria
• C. May cause irritability and anxiety
• D. Sometimes alters consciousness

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypokalemia increases the risk of dysrhythmias when taking digoxin, making potassium intake crucial. Digoxin toxicity is more likely in patients with low potassium levels, leading to an increased risk of dysrhythmias. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because hypokalemia in combination with digoxin is primarily associated with dysrhythmias rather than oliguria, irritability, anxiety, or alteration of consciousness.

3. A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is experiencing dyspnea. Which of these actions should the nurse perform first?

• A. Administer oxygen therapy
• B. Encourage the client to perform deep breathing exercises
• C. Raise the head of the bed
• D. Check the client's oxygen saturation level

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to check the client's oxygen saturation level first. This action is crucial in assessing the severity of dyspnea and determining the necessity for oxygen therapy. Administering oxygen therapy without knowing the current oxygen saturation level can be inappropriate and potentially harmful. Encouraging deep breathing exercises and raising the head of the bed are important interventions, but assessing the oxygen saturation level takes precedence in managing dyspnea in a client with COPD.

4. The nurse is caring for a client with a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. Which of these statements made by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I will monitor my blood glucose levels regularly and keep a record to show my healthcare provider.
• B. I will follow my meal plan and exercise regularly to help manage my blood sugar levels.
• C. I will stop taking my medications if my blood sugar levels are normal.
• D. I will continue to take my medications even if I feel better.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Choice C indicates a need for further teaching because stopping medications when blood sugar levels are normal can lead to uncontrolled blood sugar levels if the individual does not understand the importance of medication adherence in managing diabetes. Choices A, B, and D are correct statements that demonstrate good understanding of managing diabetes, such as monitoring blood glucose levels, following a meal plan, exercising regularly, and adhering to medication even when feeling better.

5. The nurse is caring for a client with clinical depression who is receiving a MAO inhibitor. When providing instructions about precautions with this medication, which action should the nurse stress to the client as important?

• A. Avoid chocolate and cheese
• B. Take frequent naps
• C. Take the medication with milk
• D. Avoid walking without assistance

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to avoid chocolate and cheese. MAO inhibitors can interact with tyramine-rich foods like these, potentially leading to severe hypertension. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because taking frequent naps, taking the medication with milk, and avoiding walking without assistance are not relevant precautions associated with MAO inhibitors.

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