Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is planning care for a client who is 1 day postoperative following a hypophysectomy for the removal of a pituitary tumor. Which of the following findings requires further assessment by the nurse?

• A. Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15
• B. Blood drainage on the initial dressing measuring 3 cm
• C. Report of dry mouth
• D. Urinary output greater than fluid intake

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Urinary output greater than fluid intake could indicate diabetes insipidus, a complication following hypophysectomy. Diabetes insipidus is characterized by excessive urination and extreme thirst due to inadequate levels of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). Options A, B, and C are all expected findings in the immediate postoperative period following a hypophysectomy. A Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15 indicates the highest level of consciousness, blood drainage on the initial dressing is a common finding after surgery, and dry mouth can be a side effect of anesthesia and surgical procedures.

2. Four clients present to the emergency department. The nurse should plan to see which of the following clients first?

• A. A 6-year-old client with a dislocated left shoulder
• B. A 26-year-old client with sickle cell disease and severe joint pain
• C. A 76-year-old client who is confused, febrile, and has foul-smelling urine
• D. A 50-year-old client with slurred speech, disorientation, and headache

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. A client presenting with symptoms of a stroke, such as slurred speech, disorientation, and headache, requires immediate attention due to the possibility of a neurological emergency. Choices A, B, and C, although concerning, do not present with symptoms as urgent as those of a potential stroke. Dislocated shoulder, sickle cell disease with joint pain, and confusion with febrile illness can be addressed after ensuring the client with stroke-like symptoms receives prompt evaluation and intervention.

3. A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has a new prescription for an albuterol inhaler. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take one puff every 5 minutes until symptoms improve.
• B. Hold your breath for 10 seconds after inhaling the medication.
• C. Shake the inhaler for 2 seconds before use.
• D. Exhale forcefully after each puff.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Instructing the client to hold their breath for 10 seconds after inhaling the medication allows it to reach deeper into the lungs for maximum effectiveness. Choice A is incorrect because taking one puff every 5 minutes may lead to overuse of the medication. Choice C is incorrect as shaking the inhaler for only 2 seconds may not provide adequate mixing of the medication. Choice D is incorrect because exhaling forcefully after each puff may reduce the amount of medication that reaches the lungs.

4. A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of deep-vein thrombosis (DVT). Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Massage the affected leg to relieve discomfort
• B. Place a heating pad on the affected leg
• C. Encourage the client to walk around frequently
• D. Monitor the client's oxygen saturation level

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor the client's oxygen saturation level. Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) increases the risk of pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening complication. Monitoring oxygen saturation helps in early detection of any signs of compromised respiratory function. Massaging the affected leg can dislodge a blood clot, leading to severe consequences. Applying heat through a heating pad can promote vasodilation and increase the risk of clot dislodgment. While mobility is essential in preventing DVT complications, encouraging excessive walking without proper assessment can potentially dislodge a clot and worsen the condition.

5. A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for a high-protein diet. Which of the following foods should the nurse recommend?

• A. Almonds
• B. Cheddar cheese
• C. Chicken breast
• D. Pasta

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Chicken breast is an excellent choice for a high-protein diet as it is a lean source of protein. Almonds, while a good source of protein, also contain high amounts of fat. Cheddar cheese is high in protein but also high in saturated fat. Pasta is not a significant source of protein compared to chicken breast.

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