Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has hypocalcemia. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Positive Trousseau's sign
• B. Increased deep tendon reflexes
• C. Hyperactive bowel sounds
• D. Weak, thready pulse

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A positive Trousseau's sign is a key finding in clients with hypocalcemia, indicating neuromuscular irritability. The other choices are not typically associated with hypocalcemia. Increased deep tendon reflexes are more indicative of hypercalcemia. Hyperactive bowel sounds can be seen in hyperactive bowel conditions or diarrhea, not specifically related to hypocalcemia. A weak, thready pulse may indicate cardiovascular issues, such as dehydration, but it is not a typical finding in hypocalcemia.

2. A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a total knee arthroplasty. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Apply heat to the incision site.
• B. Keep the client's knee flexed while in bed.
• C. Place a pillow under the client's knee while in bed.
• D. Place a pillow under the client's lower legs.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Placing a pillow under the client's lower legs is the correct intervention because it helps prevent pressure on the incision site and promotes circulation. Elevating the lower legs also aids in reducing swelling and improving blood flow. Applying heat to the incision site (Choice A) is contraindicated in the early postoperative period as it can increase inflammation and the risk of infection. Keeping the client's knee flexed while in bed (Choice B) may lead to contractures or limited extension of the knee joint. Placing a pillow under the client's knee (Choice C) may cause hyperextension of the knee, which is also not recommended post knee arthroplasty.

3. A client in end-stage osteoporosis is reporting severe pain, with a respiratory rate of 14 per minute. Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to be the highest priority to administer to the client?

• A. Promethazine
• B. Hydromorphone
• C. Ketorolac
• D. Amitriptyline

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a client with severe pain like the one described, the priority medication to administer is a potent analgesic like hydromorphone. Hydromorphone is a strong opioid pain medication that can effectively manage severe pain. Promethazine (Choice A) is an antiemetic and antihistamine, not a pain medication. Ketorolac (Choice C) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is contraindicated in end-stage renal disease due to its potential to cause kidney damage. Amitriptyline (Choice D) is a tricyclic antidepressant used for conditions like depression and neuropathic pain, but it is not the first-line treatment for severe acute pain.

4. A nurse is providing teaching to a client with asthma. Which of the following client statements indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I should use my albuterol inhaler before I exercise.
• B. I should avoid using my inhaler more than twice a week.
• C. I should take my inhaler only when I feel short of breath.
• D. I should rinse my mouth after using my corticosteroid inhaler.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the client stating they should only take the inhaler when feeling short of breath indicates a need for further teaching. Clients with asthma should use their inhaler as prescribed, not just when short of breath. Choices A, B, and D demonstrate good asthma management practices. Choice A indicates understanding of using the albuterol inhaler before exercise to prevent exercise-induced symptoms. Choice B mentions the importance of not overusing the inhaler, which can indicate poor asthma control. Choice D shows awareness of rinsing the mouth after using a corticosteroid inhaler to prevent oral thrush.

5. A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has a new prescription for albuterol. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will use this medication to prevent an asthma attack.
• B. I will use this medication for shortness of breath during an asthma attack.
• C. I will take this medication with my daily vitamins.
• D. I will take this medication at bedtime to prevent an asthma attack.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because albuterol is used to treat shortness of breath during an asthma attack. Choice A is incorrect as albuterol is a rescue medication used during an asthma attack, not for prevention. Choice C is incorrect as albuterol should not be taken with daily vitamins. Choice D is incorrect as albuterol is not typically taken at bedtime for asthma prevention.

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