Nursing Elites

1. After surgery, a patient has decreased cardiac output. What is a likely observation by the nurse?

• A. Decreased urine output
• B. Increased urine output
• C. Flushing of the skin
• D. Hyperventilation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A decrease in cardiac output can lead to decreased blood flow to the kidneys, resulting in decreased urine output. The kidneys rely on adequate blood supply to filter waste and produce urine. Therefore, a decreased urine output is a common observation when cardiac output is reduced. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Increased urine output is not typically associated with decreased cardiac output; flushing of the skin is more related to vasodilation, and hyperventilation is not directly linked to decreased cardiac output.

2. A client is admitted with a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

• A. Administer bronchodilators as prescribed.
• B. Administer oxygen via nasal cannula.
• C. Encourage the client to cough and deep breathe.
• D. Position the client in high Fowler's position.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Administering oxygen via nasal cannula (B) is the priority intervention for a client with COPD exacerbation to improve oxygenation. In COPD exacerbation, there is impaired gas exchange leading to hypoxemia, making oxygen therapy the initial priority. Administering bronchodilators (A) helps with bronchodilation but should come after ensuring adequate oxygenation. Encouraging coughing and deep breathing (C) and positioning the client in high Fowler's position (D) are also beneficial interventions, but the first step is to address the oxygenation needs of the client.

3. A client becomes angry while waiting for a supervised break to smoke a cigarette outside and states, 'I want to go outside now and smoke. It takes forever to get anything done here!' Which intervention is best for the nurse to implement?

• A. Encourage the client to use a nicotine patch.
• B. Reassure the client that it is almost time for another break.
• C. Have the client leave the unit with another staff member.
• D. Review the schedule of outdoor breaks with the client.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a client becomes angry while waiting for a supervised break, it is essential to address their concerns effectively. Reviewing the schedule of outdoor breaks with the client provides concrete information, helps manage the client's expectations, and may alleviate their frustration. This intervention promotes transparency and empowers the client by clarifying the timing of their desired break, fostering a therapeutic and collaborative nurse-client relationship. Encouraging the client to use a nicotine patch (Choice A) does not address the client's immediate frustration with the break schedule. Reassuring the client about another break (Choice B) may temporarily placate them but does not address the underlying issue. Having the client leave the unit with another staff member (Choice C) may not be feasible or appropriate at that moment and does not address the client's concerns.

4. What is the most important instruction for the nurse to provide a client with a new colostomy regarding stoma care?

• A. Cleanse the stoma with hydrogen peroxide and water.
• B. Apply a moisture barrier cream to the peristomal skin.
• C. Measure the stoma using a stoma guide.
• D. Use a dry gauze pad to clean the stoma.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Measuring the stoma using a stoma guide (C) is crucial as it ensures that the appliance fits properly, which is essential for preventing skin irritation and leakage. Proper measurement helps in selecting the right size of the appliance, promoting comfort and optimal stoma care. In contrast, cleansing with hydrogen peroxide (A), applying a moisture barrier cream (B), and using a dry gauze pad (D) are important but not as critical as ensuring the correct fit of the stoma appliance.

5. The client is being taught about the use of syringes and needles for home administration of medications. Which action by the client indicates an understanding of standard precautions?

• A. Remove needle before discarding used syringes
• B. Wear gloves to dispose of the needle and syringe
• C. Don a face mask before administering the medication
• D. Wash hands before handling the needle and syringe

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Washing hands before handling needles and syringes is a crucial aspect of standard precautions to prevent infections. This practice helps reduce the risk of transferring microorganisms from the hands to the syringes and needles, thus promoting safety during medication administration.

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