Nursing Elites

1. A client is scheduled for a 12-lead ECG. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Ensure the client is fasting before the test
• B. Provide a warm blanket for the client
• C. Apply cold compresses to the client's chest
• D. Instruct the client to remain still

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During a 12-lead ECG, the client needs to remain still to obtain accurate readings. Therefore, instructing the client to remain still is essential. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because fasting is not necessary for an ECG, providing a warm blanket is not a standard procedure, and applying cold compresses may interfere with the ECG results.

2. What is a primary symptom of left-sided heart failure?

• A. Shortness of breath
• B. Edema
• C. Rapid heartbeat
• D. Confusion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Shortness of breath is a primary symptom of left-sided heart failure. In this condition, the heart's inability to pump effectively leads to fluid backing up into the lungs, causing difficulty breathing. Edema (swelling), rapid heartbeat, and confusion are more commonly associated with other conditions or right-sided heart failure. Edema is often seen in right-sided heart failure due to fluid accumulation in the body, rapid heartbeat can be a general sign of heart issues, and confusion is more related to decreased brain perfusion in severe heart failure cases.

3. What are the signs of hypovolemic shock and what is the nurse's role in management?

• A. Rapid pulse, low blood pressure; administer IV fluids
• B. Cold extremities, rapid breathing; administer oxygen
• C. Decreased urine output, sweating; administer diuretics
• D. Weak pulse, clammy skin; administer vasopressors

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct signs of hypovolemic shock are a rapid pulse and low blood pressure. Administering IV fluids helps to restore circulating volume, which is essential in managing hypovolemic shock. Choice B is incorrect because cold extremities and rapid breathing are not typical signs of hypovolemic shock. Choice C is incorrect as administering diuretics would further decrease circulating volume, worsening the condition. Choice D is incorrect as administering vasopressors may further compromise perfusion in hypovolemic shock.

4. A nurse is teaching a client who has gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) about ways to reduce symptoms. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Avoid lying down after meals
• B. Eat large meals to reduce acid production
• C. Drink carbonated beverages with meals
• D. Consume spicy foods to improve digestion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Avoid lying down after meals.' This instruction is important for clients with GERD as it helps reduce reflux symptoms. Lying down after meals can worsen GERD symptoms by allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Choice B is incorrect because eating large meals can actually increase acid production and exacerbate GERD symptoms. Choice C is incorrect as carbonated beverages can trigger acid reflux in individuals with GERD. Choice D is also incorrect because consuming spicy foods can irritate the esophagus and lead to increased reflux symptoms.

5. An RN is making assignments for client care to an LPN at the beginning of the shift. Which of the following assignments should the LPN question?

• A. Assisting a client who is 24 hr postop to use an incentive spirometer
• B. Collecting a clean catch urine specimen from a client who was admitted on the previous shift
• C. Providing nasopharyngeal suctioning for a client who has pneumonia
• D. Replacing the cartridge and tubing on a PCA pump

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The LPN should question the assignment of replacing the PCA pump cartridge and tubing as it is outside the LPN's scope of practice. LPNs are not trained to handle tasks related to PCA pumps, which involve medication administration and monitoring that are typically within the RN's responsibilities. Assisting a postop client with an incentive spirometer (Choice A), collecting a clean catch urine specimen (Choice B), and providing nasopharyngeal suctioning for a client with pneumonia (Choice C) are all tasks that fall within the LPN's scope of practice and do not require questioning by the LPN.

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