Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who has an indwelling urinary catheter. What should the nurse identify as a sign of catheter occlusion?

• A. Bladder spasms
• B. Bladder distention
• C. Frequent urination
• D. Hematuria

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Bladder distention. Bladder distention is a sign of catheter occlusion because it indicates a failure to drain urine properly. Bladder spasms (Choice A) are more commonly associated with bladder irritability rather than catheter occlusion. Frequent urination (Choice C) is unlikely in a client with an indwelling catheter as the urine should be draining continuously. Hematuria (Choice D) refers to blood in the urine and is not typically a direct sign of catheter occlusion.

2. A client with diabetes mellitus is being taught about the importance of foot care by a nurse. Which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Cut toenails straight across
• B. Wear shoes at all times
• C. Soak feet in hot water daily
• D. Apply lotion between the toes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Wear shoes at all times.' Clients with diabetes are at a higher risk of foot complications due to poor circulation and nerve damage. Wearing shoes at all times helps protect their feet from injuries. Choice A is incorrect because toenails should be cut straight across to prevent ingrown toenails. Choice C is incorrect as soaking feet in hot water can lead to burns or skin damage, especially for those with diabetes who may have reduced sensation. Choice D is incorrect because applying lotion between the toes can create a moist environment, increasing the risk of fungal infections.

3. A nurse is preparing to perform a routine abdominal assessment for a client. Which action should the nurse take?

• A. Palpate the abdomen before auscultation
• B. Inspect the abdomen after palpation
• C. Auscultate before palpation
• D. Start by percussing the abdomen

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate before palpation when performing an abdominal assessment. This sequence is crucial to prevent altering bowel sounds. Starting with palpation (Choice A) can lead to false interpretations of bowel sounds due to stimulation of the intestines. Inspecting the abdomen after palpation (Choice B) can also potentially alter the assessment findings. Starting with percussion (Choice D) is not recommended as it should come after auscultation to further assess underlying structures.

4. A nurse is assessing the IV infusion site of a client who reports pain at the site. The site is red, and there is warmth along the course of the vein. What is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Flush the IV line with saline
• B. Discontinue the infusion
• C. Elevate the limb
• D. Apply a cold compress

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the infusion. The symptoms described - pain, redness, and warmth along the vein - are indicative of phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein. Continuing the infusion can lead to further complications. Flushing the IV line, elevating the limb, or applying a cold compress do not address the underlying issue of phlebitis and may not be sufficient to resolve the problem. Therefore, the priority action is to discontinue the infusion to prevent worsening of the condition.

5. A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client with a prescription for home oxygen therapy. What information should the nurse include?

• A. Use synthetic fabrics to avoid static electricity
• B. Turn off the oxygen when not in use
• C. Avoid open flames or smoking near oxygen
• D. Increase the oxygen flow rate as needed

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Avoid open flames or smoking near oxygen.' This information is crucial to prevent fires because oxygen supports combustion. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is not relevant to oxygen therapy. Choice B is incorrect as oxygen should not be turned off when in use as prescribed. Choice D is incorrect because adjusting the oxygen flow rate without healthcare provider guidance can be dangerous.

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