Nursing Elites

1. A client with depression reports taking St. John's wort along with citalopram. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following conditions as a result of an interaction between these substances?

• A. Serotonin syndrome
• B. Tardive dyskinesia
• C. Pseudoparkinsonism
• D. Acute dystonia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When St. John's wort, an herbal supplement, is taken with citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), there is a risk of serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is a serious condition that can occur when there is an excess of serotonin in the body, leading to symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, increased body temperature, and more. Monitoring for serotonin syndrome is crucial when these substances are taken together to prevent any potential harm to the client.

2. When caring for a client who speaks a language different from their own, what action should the nurse take?

• A. Request an interpreter of a different sex from the client.
• B. Request a family member or friend to interpret information for the client.
• C. Direct attention toward the interpreter when speaking to the client.
• D. Review the facility policy about the use of an interpreter.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When caring for a client who speaks a different language, it is essential for the nurse to review the facility policy about the use of an interpreter. Using a professional interpreter ensures accurate communication and protects the client's confidentiality. Requesting an interpreter of a specific sex or relying on family members or friends can lead to miscommunication or breaches of confidentiality. Directing attention towards the interpreter helps facilitate communication but does not address the need for a professional interpreter as per facility policy.

3. The healthcare provider orders an IV solution of dextrose 5% in water at 100ml/hour. What would the flow rate be if the drop factor is 15 gtt = 1 ml?

• A. 5 gtt/minute
• B. 13 gtt/minute
• C. 25 gtt/minute
• D. 50 gtt/minute

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To determine the flow rate in drops per minute, multiply the ordered volume per hour by the drop factor (100 ml/hour x 15 gtt/ml = 1500 gtt/hour). Then, divide the result by 60 minutes to convert it to drops per minute (1500 gtt/hour ÷ 60 minutes = 25 gtt/minute). Therefore, the correct answer is 25 gtt/minute.

4. Examples of patients suffering from impaired awareness include all of the following except:

• A. A semiconscious or overfatigued patient
• B. A disoriented or confused patient
• C. A patient who cannot care for themselves at home
• D. A patient demonstrating symptoms of drug or alcohol withdrawal

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Patients with impaired awareness may exhibit symptoms such as being semiconscious, overfatigued, disoriented, confused, or demonstrating symptoms of drug or alcohol withdrawal. A patient who cannot care for themselves at home does not necessarily indicate impaired awareness, as this could be due to physical limitations or lack of support, rather than a cognitive deficit.

5. A healthcare professional is planning care for a client following the insertion of a chest tube and drainage system. Which of the following should NOT be included in the plan of care?

• A. Encourage the client to cough every 2 hours.
• B. Check for continuous bubbling in the suction chamber.
• C. Strip the drainage tubing every 4 hours.
• D. Obtain a chest x-ray

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Stripping the drainage tubing is an outdated practice and can cause complications. Encouraging the client to cough helps with lung expansion, checking for continuous bubbling ensures proper functioning of the chest tube system, and obtaining a chest x-ray helps to assess the position of the chest tube and re-expansion of the lung. Therefore, stripping the drainage tubing every 4 hours should not be included in the plan of care.

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