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. A healthcare professional is collecting data from a client who has hypokalemia. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional expect?

• A. Muscle stiffness
• B. Bradycardia
• C. Hyperreflexia
• D. Muscle weakness

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Muscle weakness.' Hypokalemia is characterized by low potassium levels, which can lead to muscle weakness due to impaired muscle function. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect findings associated with other medical conditions and not typically expected in hypokalemia. Muscle stiffness is more commonly associated with conditions like tetany or muscle cramps, bradycardia is more commonly associated with issues like heart block or hypothyroidism, and hyperreflexia is more commonly seen in conditions like hyperthyroidism or spinal cord injuries.

3. What are common signs of hypoglycemia?

• A. Shakiness or Tremors
• B. Sweating
• C. Hunger
• D. Confusion or Irritability

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct signs of hypoglycemia include shakiness or tremors, sweating, and hunger. These symptoms indicate low blood sugar levels. Confusion or irritability are more associated with severe hypoglycemia, while the immediate treatment for hypoglycemia involves providing a source of glucose to raise blood sugar levels quickly.

4. A patient is being educated about a clear liquid diet. Which of the following should the nurse instruct the patient to avoid?

• A. Lemon-lime sports drinks
• B. Ginger ale
• C. Black coffee
• D. Orange sherbet

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Orange sherbet. A clear liquid diet consists of liquids that are transparent and easily digestible. Orange sherbet, being a frozen dessert, is not a clear liquid and should be avoided. Choices A, B, and C are all acceptable in a clear liquid diet. Lemon-lime sports drinks, ginger ale, and black coffee are clear liquids that can be included in the diet as they are transparent and leave little residue in the gastrointestinal tract, unlike orange sherbet.

5. A client with a chest tube is post-op. What is the priority nursing action?

• A. Clamp the chest tube every 2 hours
• B. Check for air leaks and proper functioning of the chest tube
• C. Encourage deep breathing and coughing every 2 hours
• D. Encourage frequent coughing to clear secretions

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to check for air leaks and ensure the proper functioning of the chest tube. This action is crucial post-op to prevent complications such as pneumothorax or hemothorax. Clamping the chest tube every 2 hours (Choice A) is incorrect as it can lead to a buildup of pressure within the chest, risking complications. Encouraging deep breathing and coughing every 2 hours (Choice C) is important for respiratory hygiene but not the priority over ensuring the chest tube's proper function. Encouraging frequent coughing to clear secretions (Choice D) is not the priority when assessing a chest tube post-op; ensuring the chest tube's integrity and function take precedence.

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