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 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.

3. A nurse is assessing the IV infusion site of a client who reports pain at the site. The site is red, and there is warmth along the course of the vein. What is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Flush the IV line with saline
• B. Discontinue the infusion
• C. Elevate the limb
• D. Apply a cold compress

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the infusion. The symptoms described - pain, redness, and warmth along the vein - are indicative of phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein. Continuing the infusion can lead to further complications. Flushing the IV line, elevating the limb, or applying a cold compress do not address the underlying issue of phlebitis and may not be sufficient to resolve the problem. Therefore, the priority action is to discontinue the infusion to prevent worsening of the condition.

4. A nurse enters a client's room and sees smoke coming from the trash can. What action should the nurse take first?

• A. Call for assistance
• B. Evacuate the room
• C. Attempt to put out the fire
• D. Turn off the oxygen supply

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the event of a fire, the priority is to ensure everyone's safety. Therefore, the nurse's initial action should be to evacuate the room. Calling for assistance can be done while evacuating, ensuring help is on the way. Attempting to put out the fire can be dangerous and may delay evacuation. Turning off the oxygen supply is not the first step in this situation, as the immediate concern is to remove individuals from the potential danger.

5. A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). What instruction should the nurse include to help improve oxygenation?

• A. Avoid physical activity
• B. Use pursed-lip breathing during activities
• C. Limit sun exposure
• D. Perform weight-bearing exercises

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Use pursed-lip breathing during activities.' Pursed-lip breathing improves oxygenation by keeping airways open longer, facilitating better exhalation of carbon dioxide. Choice A is incorrect because avoiding physical activity can lead to deconditioning and worsen oxygenation. Choice C is irrelevant to improving oxygenation in COPD. Choice D is not directly related to improving oxygenation in COPD; weight-bearing exercises are important for bone health but not for oxygenation.

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