Nursing Elites

1. A nurse manager is preparing to complete staff performance appraisals. Which of the following principles should the nurse manager consider when completing the appraisals?

• A. Performance appraisals should be written in measurable terms
• B. Appraisal objectives should be applicable to staff at every level
• C. Performance appraisals should be based on the nurse manager's preferences
• D. Completed appraisals should be approved by a provider

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Performance appraisals should indeed be written in measurable terms to ensure objective evaluations based on specific outcomes achieved. This allows for a clear assessment of staff performance. Choice B is incorrect because appraisal objectives should be tailored to each staff member's role and responsibilities, not necessarily applicable at every level. Choice C is incorrect as performance appraisals should be objective and based on predefined criteria, not solely on the nurse manager's preferences. Choice D is incorrect as completed appraisals usually require approval from higher-level management or HR, not necessarily a provider.

2. A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for amoxicillin clavulanate to treat pharyngitis. Which statement indicates understanding?

• A. I will double my dose if I miss one
• B. I should take this medication on an empty stomach between meals
• C. I will take the medication until my sore throat goes away
• D. I will stop taking this medication if I develop itching

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The client should never double the dose if a dose is missed. This can lead to an overdose, which can cause serious adverse effects. Instead, the client should take the next dose as scheduled or consult the provider for guidance.

3. A healthcare professional is preparing to insert an indwelling urinary catheter. What is the most important action to prevent infection?

• A. Use sterile gloves during the procedure.
• B. Clean the catheter insertion site with alcohol.
• C. Insert the catheter as quickly as possible.
• D. Use a smaller catheter size to minimize trauma.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Using sterile gloves during catheter insertion is crucial to prevent infection. Sterile gloves help maintain asepsis during the procedure, reducing the risk of introducing microorganisms into the urinary tract. Cleaning the insertion site with alcohol, as mentioned in choice B, is important but not as critical as using sterile gloves. Choice C, inserting the catheter as quickly as possible, is not recommended as it can lead to errors and increase the risk of contamination. Choice D, using a smaller catheter size to minimize trauma, is not directly related to preventing infection but rather focuses on patient comfort and reducing tissue damage.

4. How should a healthcare professional assess a patient's pain who is non-verbal?

• A. Looking for changes in vital signs that may indicate pain
• B. Using alternative methods like touch or distraction
• C. Using a pain scale appropriate for non-verbal patients
• D. Observing for facial expressions or other non-verbal cues

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When assessing pain in non-verbal patients, looking for changes in vital signs that may indicate pain is crucial. While using alternative methods like touch or distraction can be helpful, they may not directly indicate the presence of pain. Using a pain scale appropriate for non-verbal patients is important, but it may not always provide immediate feedback. Observing for facial expressions or other non-verbal cues can be subjective and may not always accurately reflect the level of pain the patient is experiencing. Therefore, monitoring vital signs is a more objective way to assess pain in non-verbal patients.

5. A client complains of pain in their leg, and the nurse notes swelling and pallor. What is the priority nursing action?

• A. Administer pain medication.
• B. Elevate the limb and monitor closely.
• C. Encourage movement to reduce swelling.
• D. Notify the provider immediately about the symptoms.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Notify the provider immediately about the symptoms. Swelling and pallor in a limb can be indicative of serious circulatory issues or compartment syndrome. It is crucial to inform the healthcare provider promptly to assess and address the situation. Administering pain medication (choice A) may temporarily alleviate the symptoms but does not address the underlying cause. Elevating the limb and monitoring closely (choice B) can be beneficial but does not replace the need for immediate professional evaluation. Encouraging movement to reduce swelling (choice C) is contraindicated in this scenario as it may worsen the condition if a circulatory issue or compartment syndrome is present.

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