Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who is undergoing surgery for a hip fracture. What is a priority intervention to reduce the risk of postoperative complications?

• A. Encourage early ambulation
• B. Provide intravenous antibiotics
• C. Apply anti-embolism stockings
• D. Place a Foley catheter to monitor output

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Encouraging early ambulation is crucial in reducing the risk of postoperative complications, such as blood clots and pneumonia. Early mobilization helps prevent complications like deep vein thrombosis and pneumonia by promoting circulation and preventing respiratory complications. Providing intravenous antibiotics (Choice B) is important for preventing infections but is not the priority immediately post-surgery. Applying anti-embolism stockings (Choice C) is beneficial in preventing venous thromboembolism but does not address the immediate need for mobility. Placing a Foley catheter (Choice D) may be necessary during surgery but is not a priority intervention to reduce postoperative complications related to immobility.

2. A client with diabetes mellitus is being taught about foot care by a nurse. Which statement indicates understanding?

• A. I will soak my feet in hot water daily
• B. I will wear my slippers whenever I am out of bed
• C. I should apply lotion between my toes after washing my feet
• D. I will cut my nails in a rounded shape

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Wearing slippers or shoes when out of bed is crucial for clients with diabetes as it helps prevent injuries to the feet, reducing the risk of infection. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Soaking feet in hot water daily can lead to dryness and skin damage, applying lotion between toes can create a moist environment promoting fungal growth, and cutting nails in a rounded shape can increase the risk of ingrown nails.

3. A nurse is assessing a client who reports pain at the site of a peripheral IV. The site is red and warm. What is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Flush the IV line with saline
• B. Discontinue the IV infusion
• C. Apply a cold compress
• D. Increase the IV flow rate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the IV infusion. The signs of redness and warmth at the IV site indicate phlebitis, an inflammation of the vein. Discontinuing the IV infusion is crucial to prevent further complications such as infection or thrombosis. Flushing the IV line with saline would not address the underlying issue of phlebitis. Applying a cold compress may provide temporary relief but does not address the cause. Increasing the IV flow rate can exacerbate the inflammation and should be avoided.

4. A nurse is assessing a client who reports a burning sensation at the site of a peripheral IV. The site is red and warm. What should the nurse do?

• A. Increase the IV flow rate
• B. Discontinue the IV line
• C. Apply a cold compress
• D. Elevate the limb

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client presents with symptoms of phlebitis at the IV site, such as redness, warmth, and pain, it is essential to discontinue the IV line. Increasing the IV flow rate could exacerbate the condition by further irritating the vein. Applying a cold compress may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue of phlebitis. Elevating the limb is not the primary intervention for phlebitis and discontinuing the IV line takes precedence to prevent complications.

5. A client with diabetes mellitus is being taught about foot care by a nurse. Which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Cut toenails straight across
• B. Wear shoes at all times
• C. Apply lotion between the toes
• D. Soak feet in hot water daily

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to 'Wear shoes at all times.' This instruction is crucial for preventing foot injuries in clients with diabetes mellitus. Wearing shoes protects the feet from potential injuries and reduces the risk of developing foot ulcers. Cutting toenails straight across (not in a rounded shape) helps prevent ingrown toenails. Applying lotion between the toes can create a moist environment, increasing the risk of fungal infections. Soaking feet in hot water daily can lead to dry skin and potentially cause burns, which is not recommended for individuals with diabetes.

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