Nursing Elites

1. Aspirin is prescribed for a 9-year-old child with rheumatic fever to control the inflammatory process, promote comfort, and reduce fever. What intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?

• A. Instruct the parents to hold the aspirin until the child has first had a tepid sponge bath.
• B. Administer the aspirin with at least two ounces of water or juice.
• C. Notify the healthcare provider if the child complains of ringing in the ears.
• D. Advise the parents to question the child about seeing yellow halos around objects.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In children, ringing in the ears (tinnitus) can be a sign of aspirin toxicity. Aspirin toxicity can be particularly concerning in children and can lead to serious complications. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to prioritize monitoring for signs of aspirin toxicity, such as tinnitus, and promptly notify the healthcare provider if such symptoms occur.

2. A client who underwent a total hip replacement is receiving discharge teaching from a nurse. Which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Avoid crossing your legs at the knees.
• B. Sit only in low chairs for comfort.
• C. Bend at the waist to pick up objects.
• D. Sleep on the affected side to prevent discomfort.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction the nurse should include is to avoid crossing the legs at the knees. This advice helps prevent dislocation of the new hip joint, which is a common concern after a total hip replacement surgery. Crossing the legs can place stress on the hip joint and increase the risk of dislocation. It is important for the client to follow this precaution to promote proper healing and reduce complications postoperatively.

3. The client with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is being taught about dietary modifications by the nurse. Which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Increase your intake of spicy foods.
• B. Avoid lying down immediately after eating.
• C. Consume a high-fat diet.
• D. Drink caffeinated beverages with meals.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Avoiding lying down immediately after eating is essential in managing GERD as it helps prevent reflux symptoms by allowing gravity to assist in keeping stomach contents down. Lying down can worsen symptoms by allowing acid to flow back into the esophagus.

4. A patient with asthma is prescribed a corticosteroid inhaler. What is the most important instruction to give to the patient?

• A. Use the inhaler only during asthma attacks.
• B. Rinse the mouth after using the inhaler.
• C. Take a double dose if symptoms worsen.
• D. Avoid using a spacer with the inhaler.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most important instruction to give to a patient using a corticosteroid inhaler is to rinse the mouth after each use. This is crucial to prevent the development of oral thrush, a common side effect of corticosteroid inhalers. Failure to rinse the mouth can lead to the overgrowth of yeast in the mouth, causing oral thrush, which can be uncomfortable and require additional treatment. Therefore, reminding patients to rinse their mouth after using the inhaler is essential in preventing this potential complication. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Using the inhaler only during asthma attacks may lead to uncontrolled asthma symptoms. Taking a double dose without healthcare provider instruction can result in overdose or side effects. Avoiding a spacer with the inhaler can reduce the effectiveness of delivering the medication to the lungs.

5. An elderly female client comes to the clinic for a regular check-up. The client tells the nurse that she has increased her daily doses of acetaminophen (Tylenol) for the past month to control joint pain. Based on this client's comment, what previous lab values should the nurse compare with today's lab report?

• A. Look at last quarter's hemoglobin and hematocrit to assess for dehydration.
• B. Look for an increase in today's LDH compared to the previous one to assess for possible liver damage.
• C. Expect to find an increase in today's APTT compared to last quarter's due to bleeding.
• D. Determine if there is a decrease in serum potassium due to renal compromise.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client increases their daily doses of acetaminophen for joint pain, it raises concerns about possible liver damage due to acetaminophen overdose. LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase) levels can indicate liver function, so comparing today's levels with previous ones can help assess for liver damage caused by acetaminophen overuse.

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