Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is preparing to administer a dose of hydrocodone. Which of the following should the healthcare professional assess first?

• A. Respiratory rate
• B. Blood pressure
• C. Pain level
• D. Heart rate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When administering hydrocodone, a healthcare professional should assess the respiratory rate first because hydrocodone is an opioid that can lead to respiratory depression. Monitoring the respiratory rate helps to detect any signs of respiratory distress or depression early on. Assessing blood pressure, pain level, or heart rate is also important but not the priority when administering hydrocodone, as the risk of respiratory depression is a more critical concern.

2. A nurse is caring for a client with hepatic encephalopathy. Which food selection indicates an understanding of dietary teaching?

• A. Cottage cheese
• B. Tuna salad
• C. Rice with black beans
• D. Three-egg omelet

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Rice with black beans.' Clients with hepatic encephalopathy should limit animal proteins due to their high ammonia content, which can exacerbate symptoms. Plant-based proteins like beans are preferred as they help reduce ammonia levels. Choices A, B, and D contain animal proteins that are not ideal for clients with hepatic encephalopathy.

3. A nurse is preparing to administer a client's first dose of a new antibiotic. Which of the following is the priority nursing action?

• A. Assess the client's allergies.
• B. Monitor the client's vital signs.
• C. Inform the client of potential side effects.
• D. Obtain the client's informed consent.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Assessing allergies before administering a new medication is crucial as it helps prevent potentially life-threatening allergic reactions like anaphylaxis. While monitoring vital signs and informing the client of side effects are important nursing actions, assessing allergies takes precedence to ensure the client's safety. Informed consent is necessary for the treatment process, but assessing allergies is the priority before administering any new medication.

4. A client with osteoporosis is being taught by a nurse about dietary changes. Which of the following food choices should the nurse recommend to promote bone health?

• A. Leafy green vegetables
• B. Red meat
• C. Fortified orange juice
• D. Whole grains

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Fortified orange juice. Fortified orange juice is often supplemented with calcium and vitamin D, both of which are essential for bone health and the prevention of osteoporosis. Leafy green vegetables (choice A) are good for overall health but may not provide sufficient calcium for bone health. Red meat (choice B) is a source of protein but is not a primary source of calcium. Whole grains (choice D) are beneficial for fiber intake but do not contain significant amounts of calcium or vitamin D necessary for bone health.

5. While in the cafeteria, a nurse overhears two APs discussing a hospitalized patient. What action should the nurse take?

• A. Report the incident to the supervisor.
• B. Join the conversation to intervene.
• C. Quietly tell the APs that this is not appropriate.
• D. Ignore the conversation.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation is to choose option C: 'Quietly tell the APs that this is not appropriate.' The nurse should immediately and discreetly address the situation, reminding the APs that discussing patient information in public areas violates confidentiality. Reporting the incident to the supervisor (option A) may be necessary if the behavior continues. Joining the conversation to intervene (option B) may escalate the situation and compromise patient confidentiality. Ignoring the conversation (option D) does not address the violation or prevent it from recurring.

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