Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client recovering from bowel surgery who has a nasogastric (NG) tube connected to low intermittent suction. Which of the following assessment findings should indicate to the nurse that the NG tube may not be functioning properly?

• A. Drainage fluid is greenish-yellow
• B. Aspirate pH of 3
• C. Abdominal rigidity
• D. Air bubbles noted in the NG tube

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Abdominal rigidity can indicate a serious complication, such as a blockage or infection, requiring immediate intervention to determine if the NG tube is functioning properly. Choices A, B, and D are not indicative of a malfunctioning NG tube. Greenish-yellow drainage fluid may be normal, an aspirate pH of 3 is within the expected range for gastric contents, and air bubbles in the NG tube are not abnormal as long as they are moving.

2. When teaching a client about the correct use of a cane, what should the nurse include?

• A. Ensure the cane has a rubber cap
• B. Hold the cane on the stronger side
• C. Flex the elbow slightly when using the cane
• D. Use a quad cane for increased support

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When using a cane, it should be held on the stronger side to provide optimal support and stability. This positioning allows the cane to bear weight effectively and helps in improving balance. Option A about ensuring the cane has a rubber cap is important for preventing slipping but is not directly related to the correct use of the cane. Option C, flexing the elbow slightly, is a general guideline and may vary depending on the individual's height and the type of cane being used. Option D suggesting the use of a quad cane for increased support is not necessary if a standard cane is sufficient for the client's needs.

3. A client who has osteoporosis is being discharged with a new prescription for alendronate. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide?

• A. Take the medication at bedtime.
• B. Take the medication with a full glass of water.
• C. Take the medication with food.
• D. Lie down for 30 minutes after taking the medication.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to take the medication with a full glass of water. Alendronate should be taken with a full glass of water to prevent esophageal irritation. Additionally, the client should remain upright for 30 minutes after taking it to prevent potential adverse effects. Choice A is incorrect because alendronate should not be taken at bedtime, but rather in the morning on an empty stomach. Choice C is incorrect because alendronate should be taken on an empty stomach, not with food. Choice D is incorrect because the client should remain upright, not lie down, for 30 minutes after taking the medication.

4. A healthcare professional is assessing a client who is experiencing a thyroid storm. Which of the following is an expected finding?

• A. Hypothermia
• B. Bradycardia
• C. Hypertension
• D. Lethargy

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a thyroid storm, which is a severe complication of hyperthyroidism, hypertension is an expected finding. Other common manifestations include tachycardia, hyperthermia, and agitation. Hypothermia (choice A) is not expected in a thyroid storm as the body temperature is usually elevated due to increased metabolic rate. Bradycardia (choice B) is not typical in a thyroid storm; instead, tachycardia is more common. Lethargy (choice D) is not a typical finding in a thyroid storm, as clients are usually agitated due to excess thyroid hormone levels.

5. A nurse is teaching a client who has hypertension about dietary modifications to help control blood pressure. Which of the following food choices should the nurse recommend as the best choice for the client to include in their diet?

• A. 1 packet of reconstituted dry onion soup
• B. 3 oz of lean cured ham
• C. 3 oz of chicken breast
• D. 1/2 cup of canned baked beans

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A low sodium diet is recommended for a client who has hypertension. Therefore, the nurse should recommend 3 oz of chicken breast as the best choice for the client's diet because it contains 30 – 90 mg of sodium. Choice A, 1 packet of reconstituted dry onion soup, and Choice B, 3 oz of lean cured ham, are high in sodium content, which is not suitable for a client with hypertension. Choice D, 1/2 cup of canned baked beans, is also high in sodium, making it a less suitable choice compared to 3 oz of chicken breast.

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