Nursing Elites

1. A patient is 1 hour postoperative following an open reduction internal fixation of the left tibia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Assess neurovascular status of the extremities every 4 hours
• B. Monitor the patient's pain level every 8 hours
• C. Assist the patient to the bathroom every 2 hours
• D. Keep the patient's left leg elevated on two pillows

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take 1 hour postoperative following an open reduction internal fixation of the left tibia is to assess neurovascular status of the extremities every 4 hours. This frequent assessment is crucial to monitor for any signs of complications such as impaired circulation or nerve damage. Monitoring every 4 hours allows for early detection of any issues, enabling timely intervention and prevention of potential complications. Monitoring the patient's pain level every 8 hours (choice B) is not as immediate or essential for postoperative care. Assisting the patient to the bathroom every 2 hours (choice C) may not be necessary if the patient is not ambulatory yet. Keeping the patient's left leg elevated on two pillows (choice D) can be beneficial but is not the priority in the immediate postoperative period compared to assessing neurovascular status.

2. A healthcare professional is reviewing the laboratory report of an infant who is receiving treatment for severe dehydration. The professional should identify which of the following laboratory values indicates effectiveness of the current treatment?

• A. Potassium 2.9 mEq/L
• B. Sodium 140 mEq/L
• C. Urine specific gravity 1.035
• D. BUN 25 mg/dL

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A sodium level of 140 mEq/L within the expected reference range indicates effective treatment for dehydration. In dehydration, sodium levels are often elevated, so a normal sodium level suggests that the treatment is helping to restore the electrolyte balance in the infant's body.

3. In an immunization clinic, which patient will the nurse identify as not eligible to receive routine immunizations?

• A. An 8-year-old experiencing diarrhea
• B. A 2-year-old with a history of pre-term birth
• C. A 4-year-old with a fever and upper respiratory tract infection
• D. A 6-year-old who has been recently exposed to a classmate with chickenpox

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should identify the 4-year-old with a fever and upper respiratory tract infection as not eligible to receive routine immunizations. It is contraindicated to administer vaccines in the presence of moderate to severe illness, whether with or without fever, to prevent potential complications or reduced vaccine efficacy.

4. A child with suspected bacterial meningitis is under the care of a nurse. Which action should the nurse prioritize?

• A. Administer antibiotics as prescribed.
• B. Maintain the child on NPO status.
• C. Monitor the child's intake and output.
• D. Implement seizure precautions.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The priority action for a child with suspected bacterial meningitis is to implement seizure precautions. Meningitis can lead to increased intracranial pressure, which may trigger seizures. By implementing seizure precautions, such as padding the side rails of the bed and ensuring a clear environment, the nurse aims to prevent injury during a potential seizure episode, prioritizing the child's safety. Administering antibiotics as prescribed is essential in treating bacterial meningitis, but seizure precautions take precedence due to the immediate risk of injury. Maintaining NPO status and monitoring intake and output are important aspects of care but are not the priority when considering the risk of seizures.

5. The nurse is teaching a patient with cancer about a new prescription for a fentanyl patch, 25mcg/hr. for chronic back pain. Which statement is the most appropriate to include in the teaching plan.

• A. You will need to change this patch every day, regardless of your pain level.
• B. This type of pain medication is not as likely to cause breathing problems.
• C. With the first patch, it will take about 24hrs before you feel the full effects.
• D.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Full analgesic effects can take up to 24 hours to develop with fentanyl patches. Most patches are changed every 72 hours. Has the same adverse effects as other opioids, including respiratory depression. Should avoid exposing the patch to external heat sources, because this may increase toxicity.

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