Nursing Elites

1. A patient with cirrhosis of the liver and ascites is scheduled for a paracentesis. What should the nurse do to prepare the patient for the procedure?

• A. Have the patient void immediately before the procedure.
• B. Position the patient upright or semi-Fowler's in bed.
• C. Administer a full liquid diet.
• D. Encourage the patient to ambulate for 30 minutes.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct preparation for a paracentesis in a patient with cirrhosis and ascites includes having the patient void immediately before the procedure. This is important to reduce the risk of bladder puncture during the paracentesis. Positioning for a paracentesis is typically upright or semi-Fowler's, not flat in bed. Administering a full liquid diet or encouraging ambulation for 30 minutes are not directly related to preparing a patient for a paracentesis procedure.

2. The healthcare provider is providing care to a client with a tracheostomy. Which action should the healthcare provider take to prevent tracheostomy complications?

• A. Use sterile technique when performing tracheostomy care.
• B. Suction the tracheostomy tube every hour.
• C. Keep the tracheostomy tube cuff inflated at all times.
• D. Change the tracheostomy ties daily.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Using sterile technique when performing tracheostomy care is essential to prevent infections and other complications. Proper sterile technique helps reduce the risk of introducing harmful bacteria into the tracheostomy site, which can lead to infections and other serious issues. By maintaining a sterile environment during tracheostomy care, the healthcare provider can promote healing and prevent potential complications.

3. A client is undergoing chemotherapy and is at risk for developing thrombocytopenia. What precaution should the nurse teach the client to minimize the risk of bleeding?

• A. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• B. Engage in daily aerobic exercise.
• C. Take aspirin for headaches.
• D. Use an electric razor for shaving.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is essential for clients at risk of thrombocytopenia to prevent gum bleeding, as their platelet counts may be low. Vigorous brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush can injure the gums, leading to bleeding, which can be exacerbated in clients with low platelets. Therefore, advising the client to use a soft-bristled toothbrush is a crucial precaution to minimize the risk of bleeding.

4. The healthcare provider is assessing a client with Raynaud's phenomenon. Which finding should the healthcare provider expect?

• A. Thickened and hardened skin.
• B. Painless ulcers on the fingertips.
• C. Episodes of cyanosis and pallor in the fingers.
• D. Red, scaly patches on the hands.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Raynaud's phenomenon is characterized by vasospasm, leading to episodes of cyanosis (bluish discoloration) and pallor (pale color) in the fingers or toes, often triggered by cold temperatures or stress. This occurs due to the reduced blood flow during vasospastic episodes, causing the discoloration. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect findings associated with other conditions and are not typical of Raynaud's phenomenon.

5. A healthcare professional is participating in the emergency care of a client who has just developed variceal bleeding. What intervention should the healthcare professional anticipate?

• A. Infusion of intravenous heparin
• B. IV administration of albumin
• C. STAT administration of vitamin K by the intramuscular route
• D. IV administration of octreotide

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct intervention for variceal bleeding is IV administration of octreotide. Octreotide helps control bleeding from varices by reducing portal blood flow and pressure, which is crucial in managing this emergency situation.

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