Nursing Elites

1. Following an open reduction of the tibia, the nurse notes fresh bleeding on the client's cast. What intervention should the nurse implement?

• A. Assess the client's hemoglobin levels to determine if the client is in shock
• B. Call the surgeon and prepare to take the client back to the operating room
• C. Outline the area with ink and check it every 15 minutes to monitor for changes in bleeding
• D. No action is required as postoperative bleeding can be expected

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct intervention is to outline the area with ink and check it every 15 minutes to monitor for changes in bleeding. This approach helps in assessing the extent and progression of the bleeding. Option A is incorrect because assessing hemoglobin levels would not provide immediate information on the ongoing bleeding. Option B is premature without first monitoring the bleeding site. Option D is incorrect because although some postoperative bleeding can be expected, fresh bleeding on the cast warrants immediate monitoring and evaluation.

2. A client with cirrhosis is experiencing pruritus. Which intervention should the nurse include in the care plan?

• A. Administer antihistamines as prescribed
• B. Apply alcohol-based lotions to the skin
• C. Encourage frequent baths with hot water
• D. Limit fluid intake

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer antihistamines as prescribed. Pruritus, or itching, is a common symptom in clients with cirrhosis. Antihistamines can help relieve itching by blocking the effects of histamine. Applying alcohol-based lotions (choice B) can further dry out the skin and exacerbate itching. Encouraging frequent baths with hot water (choice C) can also worsen pruritus by stripping the skin of natural oils. Limiting fluid intake (choice D) is not directly related to managing pruritus in cirrhosis.

3. Based on the Nursing diagnosis of 'Potential for infection related to second and third degree burns,' which intervention has the highest priority?

• A. Application of topical antibacterial cream
• B. Use of careful hand washing technique
• C. Administration of plasma expanders
• D. Limiting visitors to the burned client

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The highest priority intervention in this scenario is B, the use of careful hand washing technique. Proper hand hygiene is essential in preventing infection, especially in individuals with compromised skin integrity like those with burns. By practicing careful hand washing, healthcare providers reduce the risk of introducing harmful pathogens to the burn wound, thus lowering the chances of infections. Choice A, application of topical antibacterial cream, is important but should follow ensuring proper hand hygiene. Choice C, administration of plasma expanders, is not directly associated with preventing burn-related infections. Choice D, limiting visitors, is significant for infection control, but ensuring proper hand hygiene outweighs this intervention in terms of priority.

4. A client with diabetes exhibits a blood sugar of 350 mg/dL. What is the nurse's best action?

• A. Administer insulin as prescribed
• B. Provide a carbohydrate-controlled snack
• C. Encourage physical activity
• D. Recheck the blood sugar

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a client with diabetes presenting with a blood sugar level of 350 mg/dL, the best action for the nurse is to administer insulin as prescribed. High blood sugar levels can lead to complications like diabetic ketoacidosis, making prompt insulin administration crucial to lower the blood glucose level. Providing a carbohydrate-controlled snack would be inappropriate as it may further elevate blood sugar levels. Encouraging physical activity is not advisable when the blood sugar is significantly high, as exercise can raise blood sugar levels. Rechecking the blood sugar is necessary after administering insulin to monitor the response to treatment.

5. After morning dressing changes, a male client with paraplegia contaminates his ischial decubiti dressing with diarrheal stool. What is the best activity for the nurse to assign to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?

• A. Identify the need for additional supplies for an extra dressing change
• B. Provide perianal care and collect clean linens for the dressing change
• C. Document the diarrhea that necessitates an additional dressing change
• D. Position the client for access to the decubiti sites and remove dressings

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The best activity for the nurse to assign to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) in this situation is to provide perianal care and collect clean linens for the dressing change. This task is crucial to maintain proper hygiene, prevent infection, and promote healing in the areas affected by decubiti. Choice A is not the priority as addressing the contamination and ensuring hygiene is more critical. Choice C is not the immediate concern and does not address the current situation. Choice D involves direct client care tasks that should be handled by licensed nursing staff.

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