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 patient develops hypotension, laryngeal edema, and bronchospasm after eating peanuts. Which medication should the nurse prepare to administer?

• A. Promethazine
• B. Epinephrine
• C. Diphenhydramine
• D. Hydroxyzine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The patient is exhibiting symptoms of anaphylaxis triggered by a peanut allergy, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. The appropriate medication for anaphylaxis is epinephrine. Epinephrine acts quickly to reverse the symptoms by constricting blood vessels, relaxing bronchial muscles, and reducing laryngeal edema, making it the drug of choice for this situation. Promethazine, diphenhydramine, and hydroxyzine are not the first-line treatments for anaphylaxis. Promethazine is an antihistamine with sedative effects, Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine, and Hydroxyzine is also an antihistamine with sedative properties. While these medications can help with mild allergic reactions, they are not as effective or fast-acting as epinephrine in treating the severe manifestations of anaphylaxis.

3. A healthcare professional is planning care for an infant who has a colostomy. Which of the following actions should the healthcare professional take?

• A. Change the ostomy pouch every day.
• B. Use baby wipes to clean the stoma.
• C. Avoid using soap to clean the stoma.
• D. Apply barrier ointment to the skin around the stoma.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When caring for an infant with a colostomy, it is essential to apply barrier ointment to the skin around the stoma. This helps in preventing skin breakdown and irritation caused by exposure to stool or urine. Changing the ostomy pouch as needed, using appropriate cleaning supplies such as warm water and mild soap (avoiding harsh chemicals like alcohol), and ensuring gentle cleaning of the stoma with a soft cloth or gauze are also important steps in colostomy care. Using baby wipes may not be recommended as they can contain chemicals that may irritate the sensitive skin around the stoma.

4. Before administering a live virus vaccine to a patient taking a glucocorticoid medication, what action should the nurse take?

• A. Continue screening and administer the vaccine if appropriate
• B. Note the contraindication but administer the vaccine regardless
• C. Note the contraindication and clarify the order with the healthcare provider
• D. Withhold the vaccine and inform the department of health

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when a patient on glucocorticoid medication is to note the contraindication and clarify the order with the healthcare provider. Glucocorticoids can suppress the immune response, potentially reducing the effectiveness of vaccines. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with the healthcare provider to assess the risks and benefits of administering a live virus vaccine in such circumstances. Administering a live virus vaccine to a patient taking glucocorticoids can increase the risk of developing a viral infection, making it essential to seek guidance from the healthcare provider before proceeding.

5. A newborn diagnosed with an omphalocele defect is admitted to the intensive care nursery. Which nursing action is appropriate based on the current data?

• A. Placing the newborn on a radiant warmer
• B. Placing the newborn in an open crib
• C. Preparing the newborn for phototherapy
• D. Preparing the newborn for bottle-feeding

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Placing the newborn on a radiant warmer is appropriate as it helps maintain the body temperature and prevent hypothermia in a newborn with an omphalocele defect. This is crucial for the infant's well-being and supports their physiological stability.

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