Nursing Elites

1. A nurse practitioner is assessing a patient who has a fever, malaise, and a white blood cell count that is elevated. Which of the following principles should guide the nurses management of the patients care?

• A. There is a need for the patient to be assessed for lymphoma.
• B. Infection is the most likely cause of the patients change in health status.
• C. The patient is exhibiting signs and symptoms of leukemia.
• D. The patient should undergo diagnostic testing for multiple myeloma.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An elevated white blood cell (WBC) count, also known as leukocytosis, is most commonly a response to infection. When the body detects an infection, the immune system responds by increasing the production of white blood cells to fight off the invading pathogens. The accompanying symptoms of fever and malaise are typical signs of infection, supporting the likelihood that this patient’s health status is related to an infectious process rather than a more serious hematologic condition like lymphoma or leukemia.

2. A nurse works on an oncology unit and delegates personal hygiene to assistive personnel (AP). What action by the AP requires intervention from the nurse?

• A. Allowing a very tired client to skip oral hygiene and sleep.
• B. Assisting clients with washing the perianal area every 12 hours.
• C. Helping the client use a soft-bristled toothbrush for oral care.
• D. Reminding the client to rinse the mouth with water or saline.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Skipping oral hygiene is not appropriate for a client, even if they are tired, as it increases the risk of infection.

3. After undergoing mastectomy, a patient demonstrates understanding of the nurse's instructions by doing which of the following?

• A. Dangle arms at the bedside
• B. Lie down on the affected chest
• C. Drink plenty of fluids immediately after surgery
• D. Elevate the affected arm

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to elevate the affected arm. Elevating the affected arm helps prevent lymphedema after a mastectomy. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. 'Dangling arms at the bedside' does not provide any benefit after a mastectomy. 'Lying down on the affected chest' can cause discomfort and possible complications. 'Drinking plenty of fluids immediately after surgery' is not related to preventing lymphedema post-mastectomy.

4. A patient with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is at risk for tumor lysis syndrome. What laboratory values should the nurse monitor to detect this complication?

• A. Creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
• B. Electrolytes and uric acid levels
• C. Serum glucose and calcium levels
• D. Liver enzymes and bilirubin levels

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Electrolytes and uric acid levels are important to monitor for the development of tumor lysis syndrome.

5. A nurse who works in an oncology clinic is assessing a patient who has arrived for a 2-month follow-up appointment following chemotherapy. The nurse notes that the patient's skin appears yellow. Which blood tests should be done to further explore this clinical sign?

• A. Liver function tests (LFTs)
• B. Complete blood count (CBC)
• C. Platelet count
• D. Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Detailed Rationale: Yellow skin is a sign of jaundice, which is often associated with liver disease. Liver function tests (LFTs) help in evaluating liver health and function. A complete blood count (CBC) primarily assesses red and white blood cells and platelets, not directly related to jaundice. Platelet count specifically measures platelets in the blood and is unrelated to the yellow skin observed in this patient. Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine tests focus on kidney function, not typically associated with yellow skin, making them less relevant in this context.

Similar Questions