Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client who has a new prescription for codeine for cough suppression. What is the priority instruction?

• A. Avoid driving
• B. Drink plenty of fluids
• C. Move slowly when standing up
• D. Take with food

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the client to 'Move slowly when standing up.' Codeine can cause orthostatic hypotension, a drop in blood pressure when changing positions, leading to dizziness or fainting. By advising the client to move slowly when standing up, the nurse helps prevent falls or injuries due to sudden drops in blood pressure. Choices A, B, and D are important instructions as well but not the priority when considering the risk of orthostatic hypotension associated with codeine.

2. A patient is being taught to use TD nitroglycerin patches to treat angina pectoris. What instructions should be included?

• A. Apply a patch every 12 hours
• B. Apply a new patch every morning
• C. Use it only when symptoms appear
• D. Rotate the application site weekly

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to apply a new patch every morning. Nitroglycerin patches should be applied in the morning and removed at bedtime to provide a 14-hour nitrate-free interval, preventing tolerance development. Choice A is incorrect because applying a patch every 12 hours may lead to tolerance. Choice C is incorrect because nitroglycerin patches are used prophylactically, not just when symptoms appear. Choice D is incorrect because rotating the application site weekly is not necessary; the same site can be used as long as there is no skin irritation.

3. Which of the following statements reflects the principles of sterile technique?

• A. Sterile objects that come in contact with unsterile objects are to be considered contaminated.
• B. Items in a sterile package must be used immediately once the package has been opened; otherwise, they are considered contaminated.
• C. Any part of a sterile field that hangs below the top of the table is sterile as long as it is not touched.
• D. The edge of a sterile field and a border 1 inch (2.5 cm) inward is unsterile.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct statement reflecting the principles of sterile technique is that sterile objects that come in contact with unsterile objects are considered contaminated. This principle is crucial in maintaining asepsis during medical procedures. Choice B is incorrect because items in a sterile package should only be used if they remain sterile; opening the package does not automatically contaminate the items. Choice C is incorrect as any part of a sterile field that hangs below the top of the table is considered unsterile. Choice D is incorrect as the edge of a sterile field and a border inward are typically considered unsterile to maintain the integrity of the sterile area.

4. What is the priority action when a patient is experiencing an allergic reaction to a medication?

• A. Monitor the patient's blood pressure every 15 minutes.
• B. Discontinue the medication and notify the healthcare provider.
• C. Administer an antihistamine to reduce symptoms.
• D. Monitor the patient's urine output closely.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the medication and notify the healthcare provider when a patient is experiencing an allergic reaction to a medication. This action is crucial to prevent further harm to the patient. Monitoring blood pressure (choice A) or urine output (choice D) may be important but is not the priority when managing an allergic reaction. Administering an antihistamine (choice C) should only be done after discontinuing the medication and consulting with the healthcare provider.

5. A client is vomiting, and a nurse is providing care. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Administer an antiemetic to the client
• B. Notify housekeeping
• C. Prevent the client from aspirating
• D. Provide the client with an emesis basin

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Preventing aspiration is the priority when caring for a client who is vomiting to reduce the risk of pneumonia or other respiratory complications. Aspiration can occur when vomitus enters the airway, leading to respiratory distress. Ensuring the airway is protected during vomiting episodes is essential. Administering an antiemetic (Choice A) can be considered after addressing the immediate risk of aspiration. Notifying housekeeping (Choice B) and providing an emesis basin (Choice D) are important but are secondary to preventing aspiration, which is crucial for the client's safety and well-being.

Similar Questions