Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who reports pain at the site of an indwelling urinary catheter. What is the nurse's first action?

• A. Irrigate the catheter with normal saline
• B. Notify the provider
• C. Apply a warm compress to the site
• D. Administer pain medication

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct first action for the nurse to take when a client reports pain at the site of an indwelling urinary catheter is to notify the provider. Pain at the catheter site may indicate complications such as infection or blockage, which require further assessment and intervention by the healthcare provider. Irrigating the catheter, applying a warm compress, or administering pain medication should not be done without provider evaluation as they do not address the underlying cause of the pain and may potentially worsen the situation.

2. A nurse in an emergency department is monitoring the hydration status of a client receiving oral rehydration. What finding should the nurse intervene for?

• A. Heart rate of 80 beats per minute
• B. Heart rate of 120 beats per minute
• C. Blood pressure of 110/70 mmHg
• D. Respiratory rate of 16 breaths per minute

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A heart rate of 120 beats per minute indicates tachycardia, which can be a sign of dehydration and requires intervention. A heart rate of 80 beats per minute is within the normal range and does not indicate dehydration. A blood pressure of 110/70 mmHg is considered normal. A respiratory rate of 16 breaths per minute is also within the normal range and does not point towards dehydration.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

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