Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare provider is reviewing the medical records of a group of older adults (OA). The provider should identify that which of the following is a risk factor that places OA at an increased risk for developing infections?

• A. Improved circulation
• B. Increased immune function
• C. Lowered immune system function
• D. Dehydration

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Lowered immune system function.' As individuals age, their immune system tends to weaken, making them more susceptible to infections. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because improved circulation and increased immune function would typically reduce the risk of infections, while dehydration can impact overall health but is not directly related to immune system function in the context of infection risk.

2. What is an example of a culturally sensitive response from a healthcare provider when a patient mentions feeling uncomfortable with a treatment plan?

• A. Asking why they feel this way
• B. Explaining that the treatment is standard
• C. Inviting the patient to share concerns
• D. Offering alternative treatments

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Inviting the patient to share concerns is an example of a culturally sensitive response as it acknowledges the patient's feelings and provides a safe space for them to express their discomfort. This approach shows respect for the patient's cultural beliefs and values by valuing their perspective. Choice A, asking why they feel this way, can be perceived as confrontational and may not encourage open communication. Choice B, explaining that the treatment is standard, dismisses the patient's feelings and does not address their discomfort. Choice D, offering alternative treatments, may be premature without fully understanding the patient's concerns first.

3. A nurse is providing discharge teaching for a client newly prescribed methadone. Which statement indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I understand methadone slows my breathing.
• B. I understand methadone may cause me to have trouble sleeping.
• C. I will avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
• D. I’ll change positions slowly to prevent dizziness.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Trouble sleeping is not a typical side effect of methadone; the nurse should clarify this misunderstanding. Choices A, C, and D are all correct statements regarding methadone. Methadone can indeed slow breathing, so it is important for the client to be aware of this effect. Avoiding alcohol while taking methadone is crucial due to the increased risk of central nervous system depression when alcohol is combined with methadone. Additionally, changing positions slowly can help prevent dizziness, which can be a side effect of methadone.

4. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who is starting to take carbidopa/levodopa to treat Parkinson’s disease. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. “This medication can cause your urine to turn a dark color.”
• B. “Expect immediate relief after taking this medication.”
• C. “Take the medication with a high-protein food.”
• D. “Skip a dose of the medication if you experience dizziness.”

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction the nurse should provide is that the medication can cause the client's urine to turn a dark color, which is a harmless effect of carbidopa/levodopa. This is due to the metabolites of levodopa. Immediate relief is not expected after taking the medication because it may take weeks to months to achieve the full therapeutic effect. Taking the medication with a high-protein food is not recommended as protein can interfere with the absorption of levodopa. Skipping a dose of the medication if the client experiences dizziness is incorrect as dizziness may be a side effect of the medication, and doses should not be skipped without consulting a healthcare provider.

5. When resolving a conflict, which statement made by the charge nurse is an example of smoothing?

• A. You have been a nurse a long time, so I’m sure you’re capable of the tasks.
• B. If you prefer, I can take over your assignment.
• C. We can switch your assignment with someone else.
• D. Let’s discuss your concerns in a private setting.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it exemplifies smoothing, a conflict resolution strategy where the charge nurse reassures the staff nurse of their capabilities. Choice B offers to take over the assignment, which is more of a compromising strategy. Choice C suggests switching assignments, which aligns with compromising rather than smoothing. Choice D proposes a discussion in a private setting, indicating a collaborating approach rather than smoothing.

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