Nursing Elites

1. When measuring a client's blood pressure, which approach is the priority for a nurse caring for a client with hypertension?

• A. Obtain the blood pressure under the same conditions each time
• B. Use a different arm for each measurement
• C. Measure the blood pressure while the client is standing
• D. Take multiple readings at different times of the day

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct approach when measuring a client's blood pressure, especially for a client with hypertension, is to obtain the blood pressure under the same conditions each time. Consistency in measurement conditions helps ensure accurate and comparable blood pressure readings. Using a different arm for each measurement (Choice B) is not ideal as it can lead to variations in readings. Measuring the blood pressure while the client is standing (Choice C) is not the standard practice and may not provide accurate results. Taking multiple readings at different times of the day (Choice D) may be useful for monitoring blood pressure trends but is not the priority when ensuring accurate individual readings.

2. A client with a tracheostomy collar has a decrease in heart rate and oxygen saturation during tracheal suctioning. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Elevate the head of the bed.
• B. Remove the inner cannula.
• C. Irrigate the stoma.
• D. Discontinue suctioning.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation is to discontinue suctioning. Suctioning should be stopped immediately to prevent further decrease in heart rate and oxygen saturation. Elevating the head of the bed may help with oxygenation, but the priority is to stop the suctioning procedure. Removing the inner cannula or irrigating the stoma are not appropriate actions and could worsen the client's condition.

3. The nurse is caring for a client who was successfully resuscitated from a pulseless dysrhythmia. Which of the following assessments is MOST critical for the nurse to include in the plan of care?

• A. Hourly urine output
• B. White blood cell count
• C. Blood glucose every 4 hours
• D. Temperature every 2 hours

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Monitoring hourly urine output is crucial after successful resuscitation from a pulseless dysrhythmia to assess kidney function and perfusion. The kidneys are particularly vulnerable to injury following cardiac events due to decreased perfusion during the event. Evaluating urine output hourly allows for early detection of renal impairment or inadequate organ perfusion. Option B, monitoring white blood cell count, is not a priority in this situation as it does not directly relate to immediate post-resuscitation care. Option C, checking blood glucose every 4 hours, is important but not as critical as assessing kidney function and perfusion. Option D, measuring temperature every 2 hours, is relevant for monitoring signs of infection or inflammatory response but is not as crucial as assessing kidney function in this scenario.

4. A charge nurse is assigning client care for four clients. Which of the following tasks should the nurse assign to a PN?

• A. Creating a plan of care for a client who is recovering following a stroke.
• B. Assessing a pressure injury on a client who is on bed rest.
• C. Providing nasopharyngeal suctioning for a client who has pneumonia.
• D. Teaching a client who has asthma to use a metered-dose inhaler.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is providing nasopharyngeal suctioning for a client who has pneumonia. This task falls within the practical nurse's scope of practice, as it involves direct patient care and basic interventions. Creating a plan of care for a client recovering from a stroke involves critical thinking and comprehensive assessment, which are typically responsibilities of registered nurses. Assessing a pressure injury requires specialized wound care knowledge, often performed by wound care specialists or registered nurses with wound care training. Teaching a client to use a metered-dose inhaler involves patient education and requires a thorough understanding of asthma management, making it more suitable for a registered nurse.

5. The healthcare provider is assessing a client with a diagnosis of asthma. Which assessment finding would be most concerning?

• A. Wheezing
• B. Shortness of breath
• C. Use of accessory muscles
• D. Cough with sputum production

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most concerning assessment finding in a client with asthma is the use of accessory muscles. This indicates that the client is working harder to breathe, which could signify respiratory distress. Wheezing, choice A, is a common finding in asthma and indicates narrowed airways but may not necessarily imply immediate distress. Shortness of breath, choice B, is also common in asthma but may not be as concerning as the use of accessory muscles. Cough with sputum production, choice D, can occur in asthma exacerbations but may not be as critical as signs of increased work of breathing like the use of accessory muscles.

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