Nursing Elites

1. A client with COPD is developing a plan of care. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?

• A. Restrict the client's fluid intake to less than 2 L/day
• B. Provide the client with a low-protein diet
• C. Have the client use the early-morning hours for exercise and activity
• D. Instruct the client to use pursed-lip breathing

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In COPD, pursed-lip breathing helps improve breathing efficiency by maintaining positive pressure in the airways, preventing airway collapse, and promoting oxygenation. This technique assists in controlling respiratory rate, reducing dyspnea, and enhancing oxygen saturation levels. Restricting fluid intake is not typically a part of COPD management. Providing a low-protein diet is not a standard intervention for COPD. Early-morning hours are generally not recommended for exercise due to cooler temperatures and higher pollution levels, which can exacerbate COPD symptoms.

2. In an emergency department, a healthcare provider is preparing to care for a client with multiple system trauma following a motor vehicle crash. What should be the priority focus of care?

• A. Airway protection
• B. Decreasing intracranial pressure
• C. Stabilizing cardiac arrhythmias
• D. Preventing musculoskeletal disability

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a client with multiple system trauma, airway protection is the priority focus of care. Ensuring a patent airway is crucial for oxygenation and ventilation, which are essential for maintaining vital functions. Without a clear airway, the client's oxygenation and ventilation could be compromised, leading to severe consequences. While decreasing intracranial pressure, stabilizing cardiac arrhythmias, and preventing musculoskeletal disability are important aspects of care, ensuring airway protection takes precedence in this emergency situation.

3. A client with end-stage heart failure who is awaiting a transplant appears depressed and states, 'I know a transplant is my last chance, but I don't want to become a vegetable.' How should the nurse respond?

• A. Would you like information about advance directives?
• B. I will arrange for a psychiatrist to speak with you.
• C. Do you want to come off the transplant list?
• D. Would you like to speak with a priest or chaplain?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The client is expressing a fear of negative outcomes related to the transplant. By offering information about advance directives, the nurse allows the client to discuss concerns and preferences for end-of-life care. This response shows empathy, acknowledges the client's autonomy, and addresses the client's fears while providing support and information.

4. After a thoracentesis, a healthcare provider assesses a client. Which assessment finding warrants immediate action?

• A. The client rates pain as 5/10 at the site of the procedure.
• B. A small amount of drainage is noted from the site.
• C. Pulse oximetry reads 93% on 2 liters of oxygen.
• D. The trachea is deviated toward the opposite side of the neck.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A deviated trachea indicates a tension pneumothorax, a life-threatening emergency. This condition can rapidly lead to respiratory failure and requires immediate intervention. The other assessment findings, such as pain level, mild drainage, and slightly decreased oxygen saturation, are within an expected range after a thoracentesis and do not indicate an immediate threat to the client's life.

5. A nurse assesses a client who has a mediastinal chest tube. Which symptoms require the nurse's immediate intervention? (Select ONE that does not apply)

• A. Production of pink sputum
• B. Tracheal deviation
• C. Pain at insertion site
• D. Sudden onset of shortness of breath

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a client with a mediastinal chest tube, the presence of pink sputum does not necessarily require immediate intervention. However, tracheal deviation could indicate a tension pneumothorax, sudden shortness of breath could signal tube issues or pneumothorax, and drainage exceeding 70 mL/hr might suggest hemorrhage. Disconnection at the Y site could lead to air entering the tubing, necessitating prompt attention.

Similar Questions