Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is preparing to perform a routine abdominal assessment for a client. Which action should the nurse take?

• A. Palpate the abdomen before auscultation
• B. Inspect the abdomen after palpation
• C. Auscultate before palpation
• D. Start by percussing the abdomen

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate before palpation when performing an abdominal assessment. This sequence is crucial to prevent altering bowel sounds. Starting with palpation (Choice A) can lead to false interpretations of bowel sounds due to stimulation of the intestines. Inspecting the abdomen after palpation (Choice B) can also potentially alter the assessment findings. Starting with percussion (Choice D) is not recommended as it should come after auscultation to further assess underlying structures.

2. A client has a new prescription for a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). What instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Inhale the medication for 1 second
• B. Shake the inhaler vigorously before use
• C. Hold the inhaler 1-2 inches from the mouth
• D. Exhale immediately after inhalation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) is to hold the inhaler 1-2 inches from the mouth. This distance allows for the proper delivery of the medication into the lungs. Choice A is incorrect because the duration of inhalation can vary depending on the medication, and 1 second may not be adequate. Choice B is incorrect as shaking the inhaler vigorously is not necessary for all MDIs and can lead to inaccurate dosing. Choice D is incorrect as the client should hold their breath for about 10 seconds after inhalation to allow the medication to deposit in the lungs.

3. A nurse is providing discharge teaching for a client with a prescription for home oxygen therapy. Which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Increase the oxygen flow rate when shortness of breath occurs
• B. Keep oxygen tubing away from heat sources
• C. Wear synthetic fabrics to prevent static
• D. Turn off the oxygen when not in use

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with home oxygen therapy is to keep oxygen tubing away from heat sources to prevent fires and other hazards. Option A is incorrect because adjusting the oxygen flow rate without healthcare provider guidance can be dangerous. Option C is incorrect as synthetic fabrics can generate static electricity, which is a fire hazard. Option D is incorrect as oxygen should be left on as prescribed unless advised otherwise.

4. A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following abdominal surgery. What behavior should the nurse identify as increasing the client's risk for constipation?

• A. Increased physical activity
• B. Frequent urge suppression
• C. Adequate sleep
• D. Increased fluid intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Frequent urge suppression can lead to constipation, especially postoperatively. Suppressing the urge to defecate can disrupt the normal bowel movement pattern and lead to constipation. Choices A, C, and D are behaviors that generally help prevent constipation rather than increase the risk. Increased physical activity, adequate sleep, and increased fluid intake promote bowel regularity and reduce the risk of constipation.

5. A healthcare provider is preparing to perform a routine abdominal assessment. What action should the healthcare provider take first?

• A. Inspect the abdomen
• B. Auscultate bowel sounds
• C. Palpate the abdomen
• D. Percuss the abdomen

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct first action in a routine abdominal assessment is to inspect the abdomen. This allows the healthcare provider to visually assess for any visible abnormalities such as scars, distention, or masses. Auscultating bowel sounds comes after inspection as the second step to assess bowel motility. Palpation and percussion follow in the sequence of a comprehensive abdominal assessment. Therefore, inspecting the abdomen is the priority to gather initial information before proceeding with further assessment techniques.

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