Nursing Elites

1. How should a healthcare provider assess a patient for fluid overload?

• A. Monitor weight and assess for shortness of breath
• B. Auscultate lung sounds and monitor blood pressure
• C. Assess for edema in the extremities
• D. Assess for jugular venous distension

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Correctly, the answer is to monitor weight and assess for shortness of breath when assessing a patient for fluid overload. Weight monitoring is crucial as sudden weight gain can indicate fluid retention. Shortness of breath can be a sign of fluid accumulation in the lungs. While auscultating lung sounds and monitoring blood pressure are important assessments in overall patient care, they may not be specific to fluid overload. Assessing for edema in the extremities is relevant, but it is not as sensitive as monitoring weight for detecting fluid overload. Assessing for jugular venous distension is more specific to assessing fluid status in heart failure rather than a general assessment for fluid overload.

2. A client with coronary artery disease (CAD) is being taught about lifestyle changes by a nurse. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Increase your intake of red meat
• B. Increase physical activity to 150 minutes per week
• C. Avoid foods high in fiber
• D. Increase sodium intake to 2,300 mg per day

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Increase physical activity to 150 minutes per week.' Increasing physical activity is essential for clients with CAD as it helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Choice A is incorrect as red meat is high in saturated fats, which can be detrimental for CAD. Choice C is incorrect as foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are beneficial for heart health. Choice D is incorrect as increasing sodium intake can lead to hypertension and worsen CAD.

3. A charge nurse on a long-term care unit is preparing to delegate tasks to a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and an assistive personnel (AP). Which of the following tasks should the charge nurse delegate to the LPN?

• A. Insert an IV catheter
• B. Administer initial NG tube feeding
• C. Administer insulin
• D. Give medications for diabetes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct task to delegate to the LPN is administering initial NG tube feeding. LPNs are trained to carry out this task as it falls within their scope of practice. Inserting an IV catheter (Choice A) is typically performed by registered nurses. Administering insulin (Choice C) and giving medications for diabetes (Choice D) involve assessing the patient's condition and adjusting medication dosage, which are responsibilities of registered nurses or higher-level healthcare providers.

4. A nurse is caring for a client who has an altered mental status and has become aggressive. Which of the following prescriptions should the nurse clarify with the provider prior to administration?

• A. Haloperidol
• B. Zolpidem
• C. Morphine
• D. Lorazepam

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Zolpidem. Zolpidem is a sedative-hypnotic medication that can worsen altered mental status, especially in clients who are already aggressive. Therefore, the nurse should clarify this prescription with the provider before administration to ensure it is safe for the client. Choice A, Haloperidol, is an antipsychotic commonly used to manage aggression in clients with altered mental status, making it an appropriate choice in this scenario. Choice C, Morphine, is an opioid analgesic and would not directly impact the client's altered mental status or aggression. Choice D, Lorazepam, is a benzodiazepine used to manage anxiety and agitation, which could be beneficial in this situation but does not have the same potential to exacerbate altered mental status as Zolpidem.

5. A client is learning to use a cane due to left-leg weakness. Which instruction is correct?

• A. Use the cane on the stronger side of the body
• B. Maintain two points of support on the floor at all times
• C. Advance the cane and the strong leg together
• D. Advance the cane 30 to 45 cm with each step

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction when using a cane due to leg weakness is to maintain two points of support on the floor at all times. This provides stability and support while walking. Choice A is incorrect because the cane should be used on the weaker side to provide assistance. Choice C is incorrect as the cane and weak leg should move together for support. Choice D is incorrect as advancing the cane too far with each step may compromise balance and stability.

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