Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is preparing to perform an admission assessment for a client who reports abdominal pain. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Perform deep palpation at the end of the admission assessment
• B. Auscultate the client’s abdomen before palpation
• C. Begin palpation of the abdomen at the site of pain
• D. Assess the client’s bowel sounds using the bell of the stethoscope

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Auscultating the abdomen before palpation is the correct action for the nurse to take in this scenario. This approach helps to assess bowel sounds accurately and prevents the alteration of bowel sounds that can occur due to palpation. By auscultating first, the nurse can gather important information about bowel function before proceeding with the palpation. Choice A is incorrect because deep palpation should be avoided initially, especially in a client reporting abdominal pain, as it may cause discomfort or potential harm. Choice C is incorrect as palpation should typically start away from the site of pain to prevent exacerbating discomfort. Choice D is incorrect because assessing bowel sounds with the bell of the stethoscope is not the initial step recommended when a client reports abdominal pain; auscultation should be performed with the diaphragm of the stethoscope first.

2. A client is evaluated by a nurse regarding the use of a sequential compression device. Which of the following client statements indicates understanding of the device's purpose?

• A. “This device will keep me from developing skin sores.”
• B. “This device will keep the blood circulating in my leg.”
• C. “This device will prevent my leg muscles from weakening.”
• D. “This device will maintain the health of my joints.”

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because sequential compression devices are utilized to enhance circulation and prevent clot formation in the legs. Option A is incorrect because these devices are not primarily meant to prevent skin sores. Option C is incorrect because the devices do not directly address muscle weakness. Option D is incorrect as the main purpose of sequential compression devices is not related to joint health.

3. When performing nasotracheal suctioning on a client with a respiratory infection, what technique should be used?

• A. Apply intermittent suction when withdrawing the catheter.
• B. Apply continuous suction during insertion of the catheter.
• C. Apply suction only during insertion of the catheter.
• D. Insert the catheter while the client is exhaling.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct technique for nasotracheal suctioning is to apply intermittent suction when withdrawing the catheter. This method helps prevent damage to the mucosa and is the recommended approach. Continuous suction during insertion (choice B) can cause trauma to the airway lining. Applying suction only during insertion (choice C) is not sufficient for effective removal of secretions. Inserting the catheter while the client is exhaling (choice D) does not follow the standard procedure for nasotracheal suctioning.

4. A client is admitted with a diagnosis of left-sided heart failure. Which assessment finding would be most concerning?

• A. Peripheral edema
• B. Crackles in the lungs
• C. Jugular vein distention
• D. Hepatomegaly

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Crackles in the lungs. Crackles in the lungs indicate pulmonary congestion, a serious complication of left-sided heart failure. The presence of crackles suggests fluid accumulation in the lungs, impairing gas exchange and potentially leading to respiratory distress. Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent worsening respiratory function. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect: Peripheral edema is a common finding in heart failure but may not be as acutely concerning as pulmonary congestion. Jugular vein distention is associated with right-sided heart failure, not left-sided heart failure. Hepatomegaly is often seen in liver conditions and right-sided heart failure, not specifically left-sided heart failure.

5. A nurse observes smoke coming from under the door of the staff lounge. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?

• A. Extinguish the fire.
• B. Activate the fire alarm.
• C. Move clients who are nearby.
• D. Close all open doors on the unit.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a fire emergency, the nurse's priority is to activate the fire alarm. This action alerts others to the emergency, initiates the evacuation process, and ensures everyone's safety. Extinguishing the fire can be dangerous and should be left to trained personnel. Moving clients who are nearby might delay the activation of the alarm and can put the nurse and clients at risk. Closing all open doors on the unit is important to contain the fire but should not take precedence over alerting others through the fire alarm system.

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