Nursing Elites

1. A client is postoperative following knee arthroplasty and requires the use of a thigh-length sequential compression device. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Ensure two fingers can fit under the sleeves.
• B. Ensure the device is not too tight to impede circulation.
• C. Position the client comfortably before applying the device.
• D. Use the device continuously to prevent blood clots.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when applying a thigh-length sequential compression device to a postoperative client is to ensure that two fingers can fit under the sleeves. This action helps prevent the device from being too tight, which could impede circulation. Choice B is incorrect because the device should not be too tight, as it could lead to circulation issues. Choice C is incorrect as the client should be in a comfortable position, not necessarily supine. Choice D is incorrect as sequential compression devices are typically used continuously to prevent blood clots.

2. In a client with liver cirrhosis, which symptom would be most concerning during assessment?

• A. Jaundice
• B. Ascites
• C. Hepatomegaly
• D. Altered mental status

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Altered mental status would be the most concerning symptom in a client with liver cirrhosis. It may indicate hepatic encephalopathy, a serious complication requiring immediate intervention. While jaundice, ascites, and hepatomegaly are common in liver cirrhosis, they do not directly correlate with the urgency and severity of hepatic encephalopathy as altered mental status does. Therefore, altered mental status takes priority for immediate attention and intervention.

3. A 15-year-old client has been placed in a Milwaukee Brace. Which statement from the adolescent indicates the need for additional teaching?

• A. I will only have to wear this for 6 months.
• B. I should inspect my skin daily.
• C. The brace will be worn day and night.
• D. I can take it off when I shower.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The statement 'I will only have to wear this for 6 months' indicates a need for additional teaching because the Milwaukee Brace is typically worn for 12-18 months, not just 6 months. Choice B is correct as inspecting the skin daily is important to prevent skin breakdown. Choice C is correct as the brace is usually worn day and night for effectiveness. Choice D is correct as the brace can be removed when showering to maintain hygiene.

4. A client has a new diagnosis of hypothyroidism. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Provide a high-calorie diet.
• B. Encourage frequent rest periods.
• C. Restrict fluid intake.
• D. Increase iodine intake.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct intervention for a client with hypothyroidism is to encourage frequent rest periods. Hypothyroidism often leads to fatigue, making rest essential for recovery and symptom management. Providing a high-calorie diet is not necessary unless the client has gained weight due to hypothyroidism. Restricting fluid intake is not indicated unless there are specific medical reasons for it. Increasing iodine intake is not recommended for primary hypothyroidism, as it is typically caused by autoimmune thyroiditis or other factors rather than iodine deficiency.

5. At a mobile screening clinic, a nurse is assessing a client who reports a history of a heart murmur due to aortic stenosis. To auscultate the aortic valve, where should the nurse place the stethoscope?

• A. Second intercostal space to the right of the sternum
• B. Fifth intercostal space to the left of the sternum
• C. Third intercostal space to the left of the sternum
• D. Fourth intercostal space at the midclavicular line

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct location to auscultate the aortic valve is the second intercostal space to the right of the sternum. This area corresponds to the aortic valve area where aortic valve sounds are best heard. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect for auscultating the aortic valve. The fifth intercostal space to the left of the sternum is where the mitral valve is best heard, the third intercostal space to the left of the sternum is where the pulmonic valve is best heard, and the fourth intercostal space at the midclavicular line is where the tricuspid valve is best auscultated.

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