Nursing Elites

1. When working with a client who has chronic constipation, what should be included in client teaching to promote normal bowel function?

• A. Use glycerin suppositories on a regular basis
• B. Limit physical activity in order to promote bowel peristalsis
• C. Consume high-residue, high-fiber foods
• D. Resist the urge to defecate until the urge becomes intense

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Consuming high-residue, high-fiber foods is essential in promoting normal bowel function and preventing constipation. These foods help add bulk to the stool, making it easier to pass and preventing constipation. Glycerin suppositories may provide short-term relief but are not a long-term solution for chronic constipation. Physical activity actually helps promote bowel peristalsis, so limiting it would not be beneficial. Delaying defecation can lead to stool hardening and worsening constipation.

2. A patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed lithium. What dietary advice should the nurse provide?

• A. Increase intake of caffeine.
• B. Maintain a consistent salt intake.
• C. Avoid dairy products.
• D. Increase intake of green leafy vegetables.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Maintain a consistent salt intake. Patients prescribed lithium should maintain a consistent salt intake to help stabilize lithium levels. Fluctuations in salt intake can affect the levels of lithium in the body, potentially leading to toxicity or reduced effectiveness of the medication. It is important for patients to be consistent with their salt intake and to avoid sudden increases or decreases. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Increasing intake of caffeine is not recommended as it can interfere with the effects of lithium. Avoiding dairy products is not necessary unless there are specific intolerances or interactions with other medications. While green leafy vegetables are generally healthy, there is no specific recommendation to increase their intake in relation to lithium therapy.

3. A client with hyperthyroidism is prescribed propylthiouracil (PTU). Which instruction should the nurse include in the client's discharge teaching?

• A. Report any signs of infection, such as sore throat or fever, to your healthcare provider.'
• B. Increase your intake of iodine-rich foods, such as seafood and dairy products.'
• C. Take the medication on an empty stomach for better absorption.'
• D. You may experience weight gain and fatigue as side effects of the medication.'

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Propylthiouracil (PTU) can suppress bone marrow function, increasing the risk of infection, so it is important to report signs of infection promptly.

4. When planning care for a 16-year-old with appendicitis presenting with right lower quadrant pain, what should the nurse prioritize as a nursing diagnosis?

• A. Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements related to decreased oral intake
• B. Risk for infection related to possible rupture of the appendix
• C. Constipation related to decreased bowel motility and decreased fluid intake
• D. Chronic pain related to appendicitis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority nursing diagnosis for a client with appendicitis is the 'Risk for infection related to possible rupture of the appendix.' Appendicitis carries a risk of the appendix rupturing, which can lead to peritonitis, a life-threatening condition. Preventing infection through timely intervention and surgery is critical in the care of a client with appendicitis, making this nursing diagnosis the priority.

5. The nurse is caring for four clients: Client A, who has emphysema and an oxygen saturation of 94%; Client B, with a postoperative hemoglobin of 8.7 g/dL; Client C, newly admitted with a potassium level of 3.8 mEq/L; and Client D, scheduled for an appendectomy with a white blood cell count of 15,000/mm3. What intervention should the nurse implement?

• A. Increase Client A's oxygen to 4 liters per minute via nasal cannula.
• B. Determine if Client B has two units of packed cells available in the blood bank.
• C. Ask the dietitian to add a banana to Client C's breakfast tray.
• D. Inform Client D that surgery is likely to be delayed until the infection is treated.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A high white blood cell count, as seen in Client D, indicates infection, which may require postponing surgery to treat the infection adequately. It is crucial to address the underlying infection before proceeding with the appendectomy to prevent complications and ensure a successful surgical outcome.

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