Nursing Elites

1. A client requires gastric decompression, and a nurse is inserting an NG tube. Which action should the nurse take to verify proper placement of the tube?

• A. Assess the client for a gag reflex
• B. Measure the pH of the gastric aspirate
• C. Place the end of the NG tube in water to observe for bubbling
• D. Auscultate 2.5 cm (1 in) above the umbilicus while injecting 15 mL of sterile water

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Measuring the pH of the gastric aspirate is the most reliable method to confirm proper placement of an NG tube. Gastric fluid has an acidic pH, typically ranging from 1 to 5. Assessing the client for a gag reflex (choice A) is important for airway protection but does not confirm tube placement. Placing the NG tube in water to observe for bubbling (choice C) is incorrect and not a reliable method for verifying placement. Auscultating 2.5 cm above the umbilicus while injecting sterile water (choice D) is an outdated method and is not recommended for verifying NG tube placement.

2. A client with limited mobility in his lower extremities is being cared for by a nurse. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent skin breakdown?

• A. Place the client in high-Fowler's position
• B. Increase the client's intake of carbohydrates
• C. Massage the reddened areas with unscented lotion
• D. Have the client use a trapeze bar when changing positions

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to have the client use a trapeze bar when changing positions. This action helps in repositioning without causing friction or shearing, which can lead to skin breakdown. Placing the client in high-Fowler's position (Choice A) may not directly prevent skin breakdown related to limited mobility. Increasing carbohydrate intake (Choice B) is not relevant to preventing skin breakdown. Massaging reddened areas with lotion (Choice C) can potentially cause more harm by increasing friction and damaging the skin further, rather than preventing breakdown.

3. A healthcare provider is witnessing a client sign an informed consent form for surgery. Which of the following describes what the healthcare provider is affirming by this action?

• A. The signature on the preoperative consent form is the client’s
• B. The client understands the risks of the surgery
• C. The client is aware of all postoperative care instructions
• D. The client has no further questions about the surgery

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. When a healthcare provider witnesses a client signing an informed consent form for surgery, they are affirming that the signature on the form belongs to the client. This is crucial for ensuring patient autonomy and informed decision-making. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while it is important for the client to understand the risks of surgery, be aware of postoperative care instructions, and have an opportunity to ask questions, these elements are not specifically affirmed by the healthcare provider witnessing the signature.

4. When providing oral care to an unconscious patient, what action should the nurse take to protect the patient from injury?

• A. Moisten the mouth using lemon-glycerin sponges.
• B. Hold the patient's mouth open with gloved fingers.
• C. Use foam swabs to help remove plaque.
• D. Suction the oral cavity.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When caring for an unconscious patient, it is crucial to prevent choking and aspiration. Suctioning the oral cavity helps in removing secretions and preventing potential harm. Moisten the mouth using lemon-glycerin sponges may not effectively clear secretions. Holding the patient's mouth open with gloved fingers can cause discomfort and potential harm. Using foam swabs to remove plaque may not address the immediate risk of aspiration.

5. The healthcare provider is educating a client about dietary changes to prevent the recurrence of calcium oxalate kidney stones. Which food should the provider advise the client to avoid?

• A. Spinach
• B. Bananas
• C. Chicken
• D. Rice

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Spinach. Spinach is high in oxalate, a compound that can contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones. Therefore, advising the client to avoid spinach is crucial in reducing the risk of stone recurrence. Bananas (choice B) are not high in oxalate and do not directly contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate stones, so they do not need to be avoided. Similarly, choices C and D, chicken, and rice, are not typically associated with high oxalate content, making them safe choices and do not need to be avoided specifically to prevent calcium oxalate kidney stones.

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