Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client with a chest tube following a thoracotomy. Which of the following findings requires intervention by the nurse?

• A. Tidaling with spontaneous respirations
• B. Drainage collection chamber is 1/3 full
• C. 1 cm of water present in the water seal chamber
• D. Suction chamber pressure of -20 cm H2O

Correct answer: C

Rationale: 1 cm of water in the water seal chamber is insufficient to ensure proper functioning of the chest tube. The water seal chamber typically requires a water level of 2 cm. Tidaling with spontaneous respirations (choice A) is an expected finding indicating proper functioning. Having the drainage collection chamber 1/3 full (choice B) is within the normal range. A suction chamber pressure of -20 cm H2O (choice D) is an appropriate level for chest tube drainage.

2. When teaching a client about the correct use of a cane, what should the nurse include?

• A. Ensure the cane has a rubber cap
• B. Hold the cane on the stronger side
• C. Flex the elbow slightly when using the cane
• D. Use a quad cane for increased support

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When using a cane, it should be held on the stronger side to provide optimal support and stability. This positioning allows the cane to bear weight effectively and helps in improving balance. Option A about ensuring the cane has a rubber cap is important for preventing slipping but is not directly related to the correct use of the cane. Option C, flexing the elbow slightly, is a general guideline and may vary depending on the individual's height and the type of cane being used. Option D suggesting the use of a quad cane for increased support is not necessary if a standard cane is sufficient for the client's needs.

3. A nurse is teaching a client who is pregnant about the amniocentesis procedure. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. You do not need to have a full bladder for the procedure
• B. You will not receive magnesium sulfate before the procedure
• C. The procedure will take longer than 30 minutes to complete
• D. You should report if you experience any contractions after the procedure

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct statement to include in the teaching about amniocentesis is that the client should report if they experience any contractions after the procedure. This is crucial because contractions could indicate preterm labor or other complications following the amniocentesis. Choices A and B are incorrect as a full bladder is not required for the procedure, and magnesium sulfate is not typically given before an amniocentesis. Choice C is incorrect as the procedure usually takes about 20-30 minutes to complete.

4. A nurse is caring for a client in the second trimester of pregnancy and asks how to treat constipation. Which of the following statements by the nurse is appropriate?

• A. Decrease intake of vitamins and supplements to every other day
• B. Eat 15 g of fiber per day
• C. Consume 48 ounces of water each day
• D. Drink hot water with lemon juice each morning

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Drinking hot water with lemon juice in the morning is a natural and safe way to stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation during pregnancy. Option A is incorrect as vitamins and supplements should not be decreased without consulting a healthcare provider, especially during pregnancy. Option B is inadequate as the recommended daily fiber intake during pregnancy is higher than 15g. Option C, while important for overall health, does not directly address constipation relief in pregnancy.

5. A nurse is assessing a client with chronic kidney disease. Which of the following findings should the nurse monitor?

• A. Hypokalemia
• B. Fluid overload
• C. Decreased blood pressure
• D. Increased appetite

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Fluid overload. Clients with chronic kidney disease are prone to fluid overload due to impaired kidney function. The kidneys may not effectively regulate fluid balance, leading to fluid retention. Monitoring for signs of fluid overload, such as edema, hypertension, and shortness of breath, is crucial. Choice A, Hypokalemia, is less likely in chronic kidney disease as the kidneys often have difficulty excreting potassium, leading to hyperkalemia. Decreased blood pressure (Choice C) is not a common finding in chronic kidney disease unless complications like volume depletion occur. Increased appetite (Choice D) is not typically associated with chronic kidney disease; in fact, many clients may experience a decreased appetite due to various factors such as uremia and dietary restrictions.

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