Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is planning care for a school-age child who is 4 hr postoperative following perforated appendicitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Offer small amounts of clear liquids 6 hr following surgery.
• B. Give cromolyn nebulizer solution every 6 hr.
• C. Apply a warm compress to the operative site every 4 hr.
• D. Administer analgesics on a scheduled basis for the first 24 hr.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Administering analgesics on a scheduled basis for the first 24 hours is crucial to ensure adequate pain control in the immediate postoperative period. Choice A is incorrect because clear liquids are typically initiated gradually and advanced as tolerated but not specifically at 6 hours post-surgery. Choice B is incorrect as cromolyn nebulizer solution is not indicated for postoperative pain management in this scenario. Choice C is incorrect as applying a warm compress may not be appropriate for the operative site after appendicitis surgery and can potentially increase the risk of infection.

2. How should a healthcare professional assess a patient with hyperkalemia?

• A. Monitor ECG and administer insulin
• B. Monitor blood glucose levels and provide fluids
• C. Monitor for muscle weakness and administer calcium gluconate
• D. Monitor electrolyte levels and provide potassium supplements

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Question: When assessing a patient with hyperkalemia, monitoring the ECG and administering insulin are crucial steps. Hyperkalemia can affect the heart's function, leading to life-threatening arrhythmias. Monitoring the ECG helps in identifying any cardiac abnormalities associated with high potassium levels. Administering insulin, along with glucose, helps shift potassium from the bloodstream into the cells, temporarily lowering the potassium levels. Choice B is incorrect because monitoring blood glucose levels and providing fluids are not the primary interventions for hyperkalemia. Choice C is incorrect as monitoring for muscle weakness and administering calcium gluconate are not the first-line treatments for hyperkalemia. Calcium gluconate may be used in specific situations to stabilize cardiac cell membranes in severe cases of hyperkalemia. Choice D is incorrect because monitoring electrolyte levels and providing potassium supplements would worsen hyperkalemia, as the patient already has elevated potassium levels and does not require additional potassium supplementation.

3. A client post-lumbar puncture should be in which position?

• A. High Fowler's position
• B. Prone position
• C. Supine position
• D. Sitting position

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate position for a client post-lumbar puncture is the supine position. Placing the client in a supine position helps prevent spinal headaches by allowing the puncture site to seal effectively and reducing the risk of cerebrospinal fluid leakage. High Fowler's position, prone position, and sitting position are not recommended after a lumbar puncture as they may increase the risk of complications like spinal headaches.

4. What are the nursing considerations for a patient receiving anticoagulant therapy?

• A. Monitor INR levels and check for bleeding
• B. Educate patient on dietary restrictions
• C. Ensure adequate hydration and nutrition
• D. Ensure that the patient remains immobile

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Monitor INR levels and check for bleeding.' When a patient is receiving anticoagulant therapy, nurses must monitor the patient's INR levels to ensure that the anticoagulants are within the therapeutic range and also watch for signs of bleeding, which is a common side effect of anticoagulants. Option B is incorrect because while patient education is important, dietary restrictions are not a direct nursing consideration when administering anticoagulant therapy. Option C is not a specific nursing consideration related to anticoagulant therapy. Option D is incorrect as keeping the patient immobile is not a standard nursing practice for patients on anticoagulant therapy, as mobility is often encouraged to prevent complications like deep vein thrombosis.

5. A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client about the client's recent diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. The client states, 'I am very upset and I want to be alone for a little while.' Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• A. I see that you are feeling overwhelmed. I will come back when you are ready
• B. This is normal, and I will check on you later
• C. You are feeling frustrated. Let's talk about your concerns.
• D. You will feel better soon. Let me get you some water.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Acknowledging the client's feelings and allowing them space demonstrates understanding and respect for their emotions.

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