Nursing Elites

1. A client with preeclampsia is receiving magnesium sulfate by continuous IV infusion. Which finding should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Blood pressure 148/94 mm Hg
• B. Respiratory rate 14/min
• C. Urinary output 20 mL/hr
• D. 2+ deep tendon reflexes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a client with preeclampsia receiving magnesium sulfate, a urinary output of 20 mL/hr is a concerning finding as it may indicate renal impairment or magnesium toxicity. Adequate urinary output is crucial for eliminating excess magnesium and preventing toxicity. The nurse should report this finding to the provider for further evaluation. A blood pressure of 148/94 mm Hg is elevated but expected in a client with preeclampsia. A respiratory rate of 14/min is within the normal range. 2+ deep tendon reflexes are a common finding in clients receiving magnesium sulfate and are not a cause for concern unless they progress to hyperreflexia or clonus.

2. What term is used to describe each member of a pair of genes?

• A. allele
• B. zygote
• C. autosome
• D. node

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'allele.' An allele refers to one of two or more versions of a gene located at the same position on a chromosome. In genetics, alleles are responsible for variations in inherited traits. Choice B, 'zygote,' is incorrect as a zygote is a fertilized egg cell formed by the fusion of two gametes. Choice C, 'autosome,' is incorrect as autosomes are non-sex chromosomes that determine an individual's genetic traits excluding sex-linked characteristics. Choice D, 'node,' is incorrect as it does not relate to the concept of genes or genetic inheritance.

3. When should a nurse on a labor and delivery unit instruct a newly licensed nurse to don gloves for a procedure?

• A. Assisting a mother with breastfeeding
• B. Performing a newborn's initial bath
• C. Administering the measles, mumps, rubella vaccine
• D. Performing umbilical cord care

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Performing a newborn's initial bath. Gloves should be worn during this procedure to protect against exposure to body fluids, such as amniotic fluid or blood. Assisting a mother with breastfeeding (Choice A) does not typically require gloves unless there are specific reasons for infection control. Administering vaccines (Choice C) and performing umbilical cord care (Choice D) are procedures that may require hand hygiene but not necessarily gloves, unless there is active bleeding or potential exposure to body fluids. The initial bath involves direct contact with body fluids, making it crucial to wear gloves for protection.

4. A premature infant with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) receives artificial surfactant. How does the nurse explain surfactant therapy to the parents?

• A. “Surfactant improves the ability of your baby’s lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide.”
• B. “The drug keeps your baby from requiring too much sedation.”
• C. “Surfactant is used to reduce episodes of periodic apnea.”
• D. “Your baby needs this medication to fight a possible respiratory tract infection.”

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Artificial surfactant can be administered as an adjunct to oxygen and ventilation therapy for premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). It helps improve respiratory compliance by aiding in the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide until the infant can produce enough surfactant naturally. The correct explanation to the parents would be that surfactant therapy enhances the baby’s lung function by facilitating the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Choice B is incorrect because surfactant therapy does not affect sedation needs. Choice C is inaccurate as surfactant is not used to reduce episodes of periodic apnea. Choice D is incorrect as surfactant is not administered to fight respiratory tract infections; it specifically targets improving lung function in RDS.

5. A client has experienced a fetal demise following a vaginal delivery at term. What should the nurse advise the client?

• A. “You can bathe and dress your baby if you’d like to.”
• B. “If you don’t hold the baby, it will make letting go much harder.”
• C. “You should name the baby so he/she can have an identity.”
• D. “I’m sure you will be able to have another baby when you’re ready.”

Correct answer: A

Rationale: After a fetal demise, allowing the parents to bathe and dress their baby can offer them a sense of closure and help them in their grieving process. This act can provide a tangible way for the parents to bond with their baby and create lasting memories. Option B is incorrect because each individual may have different emotional needs and holding the baby may not be appropriate or helpful for everyone. Option C, while well-intentioned, may not be suitable for all parents as naming the baby could be emotionally challenging. Option D is insensitive as it overlooks the grieving process of losing a baby by suggesting a replacement.

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