Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is planning care for four clients. Which client is the highest priority?

• A. Client with dry, black eschar on the heel
• B. Client wearing an arm cast and reporting numb fingers
• C. Client with reddened skin around the coccyx
• D. Client with frequent incontinence

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because numb fingers indicate neurovascular compromise, which can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly. The priority in this situation is to assess and address any circulation issues affecting the extremity. Choices A, C, and D are of concern but not as immediate as neurovascular compromise, which requires urgent attention to prevent further complications.

2. When teaching a client about the use of trazodone, what should be included?

• A. It can cause sedation
• B. It is a stimulant
• C. It has no side effects
• D. It should be taken with food

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Trazodone can cause sedation, so clients should be cautioned about activities requiring alertness, like driving. Choice B is incorrect because trazodone is not a stimulant; it is actually a sedating antidepressant. Choice C is incorrect as all medications have potential side effects. Choice D is not specifically indicated for trazodone; the client should follow the prescribing healthcare provider's instructions regarding food intake.

3. A nurse is preparing to perform a sterile dressing change for a client who has a surgical wound. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent contamination during the dressing change?

• A. Use sterile gloves only as necessary
• B. Restart the procedure if the sterile solution splashes onto the sterile field while pouring the solution into the dressing tray
• C. Keep the dressing tray on a nearby surface
• D. Avoid speaking during the procedure

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct action to prevent contamination during a sterile dressing change is to restart the procedure if the sterile solution splashes onto the sterile field while pouring the solution into the dressing tray. Any contact with the sterile field by non-sterile items makes the field contaminated and requires restarting the procedure to maintain sterility. Choice A is incorrect because sterile gloves should always be used during a sterile procedure to prevent contamination. Choice C is incorrect as the dressing tray should be placed on a sterile surface, not on the client's bed, to maintain sterility. Choice D is also incorrect as talking during the procedure does not necessarily lead to contamination if proper aseptic technique is maintained.

4. A nurse is caring for a client in preterm labor who is receiving magnesium sulfate. Which of the following is an indication of magnesium toxicity?

• A. Blood glucose of 160 mg/dL
• B. Urine output of 20 mL/hour
• C. Systolic BP of 140 mm Hg
• D. Respiratory rate of 20/min

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Urine output of 20 mL/hour. Urine output below 30 mL/hour is a sign of magnesium toxicity due to the risk of accumulation in the body. Choices A, C, and D are not indicative of magnesium toxicity. Elevated blood glucose, systolic blood pressure, and normal respiratory rate are not specific signs of magnesium toxicity.

5. A nurse is providing teaching for a client who has a new prescription for sertraline. Which of the following statements by the client indicates understanding?

• A. I will feel better immediately after starting this medication.
• B. I can expect to urinate frequently while taking this medication.
• C. I may experience difficulty sleeping while taking this medication.
• D. I should decrease my sodium intake while taking this medication.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'I may experience difficulty sleeping while taking this medication.' Sertraline can cause insomnia, especially when first starting the medication, so the client should be aware of this potential side effect. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because feeling better immediately, increased urination, and decreasing sodium intake are not commonly associated side effects of sertraline.

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