Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a situational crisis following the loss of a job. The client states, 'I don't think I can go through this again.' Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?

• A. Refer the client to a mental health counselor
• B. Encourage the client to express their feelings
• C. Determine if the client is experiencing psychotic thinking
• D. Ask the client about their social support system

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this situation, the nurse's priority is to determine if the client is experiencing psychotic thinking as it addresses the immediate safety concern. Psychotic thinking may pose a risk to the client's safety or the safety of others. Referring the client to a mental health counselor (choice A) may be appropriate but not the priority when safety is a concern. Encouraging the client to express their feelings (choice B) and asking about their social support system (choice D) are essential aspects of care but are secondary to addressing immediate safety issues.

2. What are the complications of untreated Type 1 diabetes?

• A. Diabetic ketoacidosis and retinopathy
• B. Hypoglycemia and neuropathy
• C. Hypotension and kidney failure
• D. Infection and fluid overload

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Diabetic ketoacidosis and retinopathy are indeed common complications of untreated Type 1 diabetes. Diabetic ketoacidosis occurs when the body starts breaking down fat for fuel, leading to a dangerous buildup of ketones in the blood. Retinopathy refers to damage to the blood vessels of the retina due to high blood sugar levels over time. The other choices, hypoglycemia and neuropathy (choice B), hypotension and kidney failure (choice C), and infection and fluid overload (choice D) are not typically the primary complications associated with untreated Type 1 diabetes.

3. What should a healthcare professional assess in a patient presenting with symptoms of a stroke?

• A. Assess facial drooping
• B. Monitor speech difficulties
• C. Evaluate arm weakness
• D. Check for time of onset of symptoms

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When assessing a patient with suspected stroke symptoms, it is crucial to check for facial drooping as it can be a sign of facial nerve weakness, which is a common indicator of stroke. While monitoring speech difficulties and evaluating arm weakness are also important assessments in stroke cases, they are secondary to facial drooping. Checking for the time of onset of symptoms is essential to determine eligibility for time-sensitive treatments like thrombolytic therapy, but when prioritizing assessments, facial drooping takes precedence.

4. Which of the following is a key consideration when providing wound care for a client with a pressure ulcer?

• A. Cover the wound with a dry, sterile dressing
• B. Perform a wound culture before applying ointment
• C. Cleanse the wound with alcohol
• D. Cover the wound with a wet-to-dry dressing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Performing a wound culture before applying ointment is crucial when providing wound care for a client with a pressure ulcer. This step helps identify the presence of any infection, allowing for appropriate treatment. Choice A is incorrect because covering the wound with a dry, sterile dressing may not address potential infections. Choice C is incorrect as cleansing the wound with alcohol can be too harsh and drying to the surrounding skin. Choice D is incorrect because covering the wound with a wet-to-dry dressing is not typically recommended for pressure ulcers, as it can cause trauma to the wound bed during removal.

5. A client has developed phlebitis at the IV site. What should the nurse do immediately?

• A. Apply a warm compress over the IV site
• B. Discontinue the IV and notify the provider
• C. Monitor the site for signs of infection
• D. Administer an anti-inflammatory medication

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client develops phlebitis at the IV site, the immediate action the nurse should take is to discontinue the IV and notify the provider. Phlebitis is inflammation of the vein, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as infection, thrombosis, or sepsis. Removing the IV line helps prevent further irritation and infection. Applying a warm compress (Choice A) may provide some relief but does not address the root cause. Monitoring for signs of infection (Choice C) is important but not the immediate action needed to address phlebitis. Administering an anti-inflammatory medication (Choice D) may be prescribed by the provider but is not the first step in managing phlebitis.

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