Nursing Elites

1. A client is postoperative following abdominal surgery. Which of the following actions should be taken to prevent respiratory complications?

• A. Instruct the client to exhale into an incentive spirometer
• B. Reposition the client every 8 hours
• C. Assist the client with early ambulation
• D. Maintain the client on bed rest for the first 48 hours

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Assisting the client with early ambulation is crucial in preventing respiratory complications after abdominal surgery. Early ambulation helps to prevent conditions like atelectasis and pneumonia by promoting lung expansion and preventing pooling of respiratory secretions. It also aids in improving circulation, reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis, and enhancing overall recovery. Instructing the client to exhale into an incentive spirometer (Choice A) is beneficial for lung expansion but is more focused on respiratory therapy rather than preventing complications. Repositioning the client every 8 hours (Choice B) is important for preventing pressure ulcers but is not directly related to preventing respiratory complications. Maintaining the client on bed rest for the first 48 hours (Choice D) can lead to complications such as atelectasis, pneumonia, and deep vein thrombosis due to decreased lung expansion and mobility.

2. A client with a new diagnosis of COPD is being taught about dietary management. Which of the following statements should be included in the teaching?

• A. You should increase your intake of high-calorie foods.
• B. You should decrease your intake of high-protein foods.
• C. You should avoid foods that contain lactose.
• D. You should increase your intake of high-fiber foods.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct statement to include in the teaching for a client with a new diagnosis of COPD is that they should increase their intake of high-calorie foods. This is important to help maintain energy levels and manage weight. COPD can lead to increased energy expenditure due to the increased work of breathing, making it crucial to consume adequate calories for energy. High-calorie foods can help prevent weight loss and support overall nutritional status in COPD patients. Choice B is incorrect because high-protein foods are important for maintaining muscle mass in COPD patients. Choice C is incorrect as there is no need to avoid foods that contain lactose unless the client is lactose intolerant. Choice D is incorrect as increasing high-fiber foods may exacerbate symptoms like bloating and gas in COPD patients.

3. A healthcare professional is preparing to administer a cleansing enema to a client. Which of the following actions should the healthcare professional plan to take?

• A. Insert the rectal tube 15.2 cm (6 inches) into the client's rectum
• B. Wear clean gloves before inserting the tubing
• C. Position the client on their left side
• D. Hold the solution bag 91 cm (36 inches) above the client's rectum

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Positioning the client on their left side is crucial when administering an enema as it helps facilitate the flow of the solution into the sigmoid and descending colon. This position allows gravity to assist in the process. Placing the client on the left side is a standard practice to promote optimal outcomes during the procedure. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A provides a specific measurement for the insertion depth of the rectal tube, which is not typically necessary to include in the plan of action. Choice B is essential but not specific to enema administration. Choice D mentions holding the solution bag without specifying the correct height, which should typically be around 18-24 inches above the rectum for a cleansing enema.

4. When admitting a client at risk for falls in a long-term care facility, what should the nurse do first?

• A. Complete a fall-risk assessment
• B. Place a fall-risk identification bracelet on the client
• C. Provide the client with nonskid footwear
• D. Set the bed to the lowest position

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The initial step in caring for a client at risk for falls is to conduct a fall-risk assessment. This assessment helps the nurse gather crucial data to identify specific risks and individualized needs, guiding subsequent interventions and preventive measures. By completing a thorough assessment, the nurse can develop a targeted plan of care to mitigate fall risk and ensure the client's safety. Placing a fall-risk identification bracelet, providing nonskid footwear, or setting the bed to the lowest position may be important interventions, but these actions should be based on the findings of the fall-risk assessment, making choice A the priority.

5. A healthcare provider is caring for a client who has acute renal failure. Which of the following laboratory results should the healthcare provider expect?

• A. Decreased blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
• B. Decreased creatinine
• C. Increased potassium
• D. Increased calcium

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In acute renal failure, the kidneys are unable to excrete potassium efficiently, which can lead to hyperkalemia. As a result, an increased potassium level is a common finding in clients with acute renal failure. Hyperkalemia can have serious cardiac effects, making it essential for healthcare providers to monitor and manage potassium levels closely in clients with renal impairment. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because in acute renal failure, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels typically rise due to decreased renal function. Calcium levels are more likely to be decreased in acute renal failure due to impaired activation of vitamin D and subsequent decreased calcium absorption.

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