Nursing Elites

1. While receiving a change of shift report on a group of clients, which patient should the nurse assess first?

• A. The client who has a fractured femur and reports sharp chest pain.
• B. The client who has a fever and is receiving antibiotics.
• C. The client who has a urinary tract infection and reports pain with urination.
• D. The client who is scheduled for surgery in the afternoon.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The nurse should assess the client with a fractured femur and sharp chest pain first. Sharp chest pain in this client may indicate a pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate attention. The other options describe important patient conditions but do not pose an immediate threat to life like a potential pulmonary embolism does.

2. A nurse is assessing a client who has a sodium level of 122 mEq/L. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Decreased deep tendon reflexes
• B. Positive Trousseau’s sign
• C. Hypoactive bowel sounds
• D. Sticky mucous membranes

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A sodium level of 122 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia, which is characterized by decreased deep tendon reflexes. Hyponatremia leads to neurological symptoms such as altered reflexes. Choices B, C, and D are not typically associated with hyponatremia. Positive Trousseau’s sign is related to hypocalcemia, hypoactive bowel sounds can be seen in paralytic ileus or decreased peristalsis, and sticky mucous membranes are not specific findings related to sodium imbalances.

3. A patient is receiving discharge teaching for esophageal cancer and starting radiation therapy. What instruction should the healthcare provider include?

• A. Remove dye markings after each radiation treatment
• B. Apply a warm compress to the irradiated site
• C. Wear clothing over the area of radiation treatment
• D. Use a washcloth to bathe the treatment area

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a patient starting radiation therapy for esophageal cancer is to wear clothing over the area of radiation treatment. This helps to prevent irritation and protect the skin. Removing dye markings after each treatment (choice A) is unnecessary and not typically part of the patient's self-care. Applying a warm compress (choice B) can exacerbate skin irritation caused by radiation. Using a washcloth to bathe the treatment area (choice D) can potentially irritate the skin further, making it important to avoid.

4. A charge nurse on a med-surg unit is preparing to delegate tasks to a licensed practical nurse (LPN). What task should the charge nurse delegate to the LPN?

• A. Initiate a care plan.
• B. Perform a complex wound dressing change.
• C. Administer an oral antibiotic to a patient.
• D. Complete an initial assessment.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct task that the charge nurse should delegate to the LPN is to administer an oral antibiotic to a patient. LPNs are trained and permitted to administer medications orally under the supervision of a registered nurse. Initiating a care plan (Choice A) and completing an initial assessment (Choice D) are tasks that typically require higher-level nursing education and critical thinking skills, which are more suitable for registered nurses. Performing a complex wound dressing change (Choice B) involves specialized skills and assessment that are often within the scope of practice of registered nurses or wound care specialists.

5. A nurse is planning care for a client who has a sealed radiation implant and is to remain in the hospital for one week. Which of the following should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Remove dirty linens from the room after double-bagging them
• B. Wear a dosimeter film badge while in the client’s room
• C. Limit each visitor to one hour per day
• D. Ensure family members remain at least 3 feet from the client

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to wear a dosimeter film badge while in the client's room. Wearing a dosimeter helps monitor the cumulative radiation exposure of healthcare workers, ensuring their safety during care. Removing dirty linens, limiting visitor time, and maintaining a distance from the client are not directly related to radiation safety measures and are not necessary in this scenario.

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