Nursing Elites

1. An elderly client is concerned about constipation during a flight. What should the nurse recommend?

• A. Use an over-the-counter stool softener when needed
• B. Eat a high protein diet
• C. Increase the fluid intake in the diet
• D. Decrease the fat content in the diet

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to recommend increasing fluid intake in the diet. Adequate hydration is essential for preventing constipation, especially during travel when mobility may be reduced. Stool softeners are not the first-line recommendation and should only be used when necessary. Eating a high protein diet or decreasing fat content in the diet may not directly address the issue of constipation related to dehydration during a flight.

2. A client with a chronic illness expresses frustration over their condition. What is the nurse's best response to support the client?

• A. Encourage joining a support group for emotional support
• B. Discuss the possibility of a cure in the future
• C. Suggest focusing on positive aspects of their life
• D. Validate their feelings and listen to their concerns

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The best response for the nurse to support a client expressing frustration over their chronic illness is to validate their feelings and listen to their concerns (Option D). This approach helps acknowledge the client's emotions, demonstrates empathy, and establishes a therapeutic relationship. By validating the client's feelings and actively listening to their concerns, the nurse offers a supportive environment for the client to express their frustrations. Choices A, B, and C are not the best responses in this situation. While joining a support group, discussing a cure, or focusing on positive aspects can be beneficial interventions, the immediate priority is to validate the client's feelings and provide a space for them to express their frustrations.

3. The nurse is assessing a client who has been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which clinical finding is characteristic of this condition?

• A. Pursed-lip breathing
• B. Hyperresonance on percussion
• C. Bradycardia
• D. High-pitched inspiratory crackles

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Pursed-lip breathing is a characteristic finding in clients with COPD. It helps keep the airways open during exhalation, acting as a compensatory mechanism to prevent airway collapse, which is common in COPD. Hyperresonance on percussion is typically found in conditions like emphysema, which is a component of COPD but not characteristic of the overall disease. Bradycardia is not typical in COPD; instead, clients often exhibit tachycardia due to chronic hypoxemia. High-pitched inspiratory crackles are more commonly associated with conditions like pneumonia, not COPD.

4. A client with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is taking lithium. What is the most important information the nurse should provide?

• A. Take the medication on an empty stomach
• B. Monitor sodium intake
• C. Report any signs of weight gain
• D. Avoid excessive caffeine intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Sodium levels can affect lithium levels in the body, so it is crucial to monitor sodium intake to prevent toxicity or subtherapeutic levels. Lithium is typically taken on an empty stomach to enhance absorption, making choice A more accurate than the original 'Take the medication with food.' Reporting weight gain, as mentioned in choice C, is important for monitoring side effects but is not as critical as ensuring proper lithium levels through sodium intake monitoring. Choice D, avoiding excessive caffeine intake, is not a priority concern directly related to lithium therapy.

5. The nurse is assessing a client with congestive heart failure who is receiving furosemide (Lasix). Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor closely?

• A. Sodium level
• B. Potassium level
• C. Calcium level
• D. Chloride level

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Potassium level. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can cause potassium loss, leading to hypokalemia. Monitoring the potassium level is crucial to prevent complications such as cardiac arrhythmias. Sodium level (choice A) is not typically affected by furosemide. Calcium level (choice C) and chloride level (choice D) are also not the primary focus of monitoring when a client is on furosemide for heart failure.

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