Nursing Elites

1. A patient with no known allergies is to receive penicillin every 6 hours. When administering the medication, the nurse observes a fine rash on the patient’s skin. The most appropriate nursing action would be to:

• A. Withhold the medication and notify the physician
• B. Administer the medication and notify the physician
• C. Administer the medication with an antihistamine
• D. Apply corn starch soaks to the rash

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the appearance of a rash after administering penicillin, even in a patient with no known allergies, is concerning for a potential allergic reaction. The appropriate action for the nurse to take is to withhold the medication and notify the physician. This precaution is necessary to prevent further administration of a medication that may be causing an adverse reaction, as allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and require immediate intervention.

2. A healthcare provider is caring for an adolescent who has sickle-cell anemia. Which of the following manifestations indicates acute chest syndrome and should be immediately reported to the provider?

• A. Substernal retractions
• B. Hematuria
• C. Temperature 37.9�C (100.2�F)
• D. Sneezing

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Substernal retractions are a concerning sign of respiratory distress and can indicate acute chest syndrome, a severe complication of sickle-cell anemia. It results from vaso-occlusion in the pulmonary vasculature, leading to impaired oxygenation. Prompt reporting of this symptom is crucial for early intervention to prevent further complications. Hematuria, a high temperature, and sneezing are not specific manifestations of acute chest syndrome and would not warrant immediate notification to the provider in this context.

3. After 1 week of hospitalization, Mr. Gray develops hypokalemia. Which of the following is the most significant symptom of his disorder?

• A. Lethargy
• B. Increased pulse rate and blood pressure
• C. Muscle weakness
• D. Muscle irritability

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Muscle weakness is a hallmark symptom of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia refers to low levels of potassium in the blood, which can affect muscle function. The decreased potassium levels can lead to muscle weakness, cramping, and even paralysis. These symptoms can impact various muscle groups in the body, making muscle weakness the most significant symptom to monitor and address in patients with hypokalemia.

4. A client who wears glasses is under the care of a nurse. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Store the glasses in a labeled case.
• B. Clean the glasses with hot water
• C. Clean the glasses with a paper towel.
• D. Store the glasses on the bedside table.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: It is essential for the nurse to store the client's glasses in a labeled case to ensure they are kept safe and protected from damage. Storing them in a case helps prevent scratches, breakage, or misplacement. This practice promotes proper eyewear hygiene and ensures the client has their glasses readily available when needed. Cleaning the glasses with hot water or a paper towel can potentially damage the lenses or frames. Storing the glasses on the bedside table increases the risk of misplacement or damage.

5. When providing discharge teaching for a group of clients, a nurse should recommend a referral to a dietitian for which client?

• A. A client who has a prescription for warfarin and states, 'I will need to limit how much spinach I eat.'
• B. A client who has gout and states, 'I can continue to eat anchovies on my pizza.'
• C. A client who has a prescription for spironolactone and states, 'I will reduce my intake of foods that contain potassium.'
• D. A client who has osteoporosis and states, 'I'll plan to take my calcium carbonate with a full glass of water.'

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the client who has gout and states, 'I can continue to eat anchovies on my pizza.' Gout is a condition that requires dietary modifications to manage symptoms. Anchovies are high in purines, which can exacerbate gout symptoms. Therefore, a referral to a dietitian is essential to provide appropriate dietary guidance for a client with gout. Clients on warfarin may need to monitor their vitamin K intake, particularly from foods like spinach. Clients taking spironolactone should be cautious about potassium-rich foods. Clients with osteoporosis should be educated on the proper administration of calcium supplements but do not necessarily need a dietitian referral for this specific statement.

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