Nursing Elites

1. A school-age child is 2 hours postoperative following a tonsillectomy. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Place a heating pad at the surgical site.
• B. Encourage the child to cough every 2 hours.
• C. Administer analgesics to the child on a regular schedule.
• D. Apply an ice collar to the child's neck.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: After a tonsillectomy, applying an ice collar to the child's neck helps decrease pain and swelling. Heat should be avoided as it can increase bleeding. Encouraging coughing may increase the risk of bleeding. Administering analgesics on a regular schedule is essential for pain management, but the immediate postoperative period may require additional interventions like ice collar application.

2. 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.

3. When developing a home program for self-care, which approach is the most effective?

• A. Require the parent to practice the steps regularly and track progress.
• B. Introduce new home programs weekly with clear instructions for the parent to follow.
• C. List all the steps and have the parent teach them to the child without practicing.
• D. Practice the new steps until the child is ready to independently perform them at home.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most effective approach when developing a home program for self-care is to practice the new steps with the child until they are capable of independently carrying them out at home. This method ensures that the child has mastered the skills before transitioning to independent implementation. It is essential for the child's success in self-care activities and promotes their autonomy and confidence. Requiring the parent to practice the steps regularly and track progress, introducing new programs weekly, or having the parent teach the steps without practice may not be as beneficial in fostering the child's independence and skill acquisition.

4. A patient is receiving glucocorticoids for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. The patient complains of having a headache. Which ordered medication should the nurse administer?

• A. Aspirin
• B. Acetaminophen
• C. Ibuprofen
• D. Naproxen Sodium (Aleve)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a patient is already receiving glucocorticoids for rheumatoid arthritis and complains of a headache, it is essential to consider the potential interactions and side effects of additional medications. Aspirin and NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen sodium can increase the risk of gastrointestinal irritation and ulceration when used concurrently with glucocorticoids. Acetaminophen is a safer choice in this scenario for managing the patient's headache without exacerbating the gastrointestinal issues associated with the use of glucocorticoids. Acetaminophen does not have the same gastrointestinal side effects as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen sodium, making it the most appropriate option for headache relief in this case.

5. A parent of an infant with diaper dermatitis is being taught by a nurse. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Use baby wipes that contain alcohol to clean the baby's skin.
• B. Expose the baby's skin to air.
• C. Use a blow dryer on the warm setting to dry the baby's skin.
• D. Give the baby a bath once a week.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The nurse should instruct the parent to expose the infant's skin to air as it helps in promoting the healing process of diaper dermatitis by allowing the skin to breathe and reducing moisture, which can worsen the condition.

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