an example of a process standard on a med surg unit is

NCLEX-PN

Nclex PN Questions and Answers

1. An example of a process standard on a med-surg unit is:

A. a procedure for changing IV tubing.
B. a policy for staffing.
C. the job description of the CEO (chief executive officer).
D. a procedure for checking waveforms on a client being treated with an intra-aortic balloon pump.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Process standards define the actions and behaviors required by staff to provide care on a med-surg unit. A procedure for changing IV tubing is a critical psychomotor skill necessary for safe and effective patient care in this setting. Choice B, a policy for staffing, pertains more to organizational management rather than specific care processes on the unit. Choice C, the job description of the CEO, delineates the responsibilities of the organization's top executive and is not a process standard for frontline staff. Choice D, a procedure for checking waveforms on a client with an intra-aortic balloon pump, is more specific to a cardiac care unit and not typically performed on a med-surg unit.

2. An LPN is caring for a primarily bedridden client. Which finding should be of least concern?

A. swollen feet
B. brown discoloration above the ankles
C. leg pain
D. capillary refill time of 3 seconds on the big toe

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is the capillary refill time of 3 seconds on the big toe. A capillary refill time longer than three seconds may indicate inadequate blood flow. Swollen feet, brown discoloration above the ankles, and leg pain are all signs of venous insufficiency to the lower extremities. These findings can suggest circulation issues and require further assessment and intervention. Therefore, they should be of more concern compared to the capillary refill time of 3 seconds on the big toe, which is within the normal range of 2-3 seconds.

3. While working the 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. shift at the long-term care unit, the nurse gathers the nursing staff to listen to the 3 to 11 p.m. intershift report. The nurse notes that a staff member has an odor of alcohol on her breath, slurred speech, and an unsteady gait, suspecting alcohol intoxication. What is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take?

A. Contact the nursing supervisor.
B. Tell the staff member that she is not allowed to administer medications.
C. Ask the staff member how much alcohol she has consumed.
D. Ask the staff member to rest in the nurses' lounge until the effects of the alcohol wear off.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a staff member reports to work showing signs of alcohol intoxication, the nurse should objectively note the symptoms and ask a second person to confirm these observations. It is crucial to contact the nursing supervisor immediately. An odor of alcohol, slurred speech, unsteady gait, and errors in judgment are indicators of intoxication, posing a risk to client safety. The staff member should be removed from the client care area. Detailed documentation of the incident is essential, including observations, actions taken, future plans, and the staff member's signature and date on the recorded incident memo. If the staff member refuses to sign, this should be noted by the nurse and a witness. Asking the staff member to rest in the nurses' lounge or restricting medication administration does not ensure client safety, as the staff member could still jeopardize it. Inquiring about the amount of alcohol consumed is confrontational and not relevant to the immediate need of ensuring safety.

4. Which of the following scenarios are considered violations of HIPAA laws?

A. Discussing discharge plans with a client in a multi-bed recovery room with the curtain drawn around the client's bed.
B. Looking up the medical information of a friend without permission.
C. Checking on your spouse's medical record because you are listed as her power of attorney.
D. Avoiding conversations about clients while in line in the cafeteria with a mutual caregiver of that client.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Scenarios B and C are considered violations of HIPAA laws. Looking up the medical information of a friend who is not in your care, even with permission, is a violation of HIPAA as the friend is not your patient. Checking on your spouse's medical record, even as a power of attorney, is a violation unless it is directly related to caregiving decisions. Discussing discharge plans with a client in a multi-bed recovery room with the curtain drawn around the client's bed is not a violation of HIPAA. This scenario is considered an 'incidental disclosure' and is not a breach of HIPAA privacy rules. Avoiding conversations about clients while in line in the cafeteria with a mutual caregiver of that client is actually a good practice as it maintains client confidentiality.

5. Which of the following neurological disorders is characterized by writhing, twisting movements of the face and limbs?

A. epilepsy
B. Parkinson's
C. multiple sclerosis
D. Huntington's chorea

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Huntington's chorea is characterized by writhing, twisting movements of the face and limbs, known as chorea. This disorder is caused by a genetic mutation affecting specific brain cells. Epilepsy presents with seizures, Parkinson's with tremors and rigidity, and multiple sclerosis with central nervous system issues. The specific description of writhing and twisting movements aligns with Huntington's chorea, making it the correct answer. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they describe different neurological disorders with distinct symptoms that do not match the writhing, twisting movements characteristic of Huntington's chorea.