Nursing Elites

1. How should a healthcare professional assess a patient's pain who is non-verbal?

• A. Looking for changes in vital signs that may indicate pain
• B. Using alternative methods like touch or distraction
• C. Using a pain scale appropriate for non-verbal patients
• D. Observing for facial expressions or other non-verbal cues

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When assessing pain in non-verbal patients, looking for changes in vital signs that may indicate pain is crucial. While using alternative methods like touch or distraction can be helpful, they may not directly indicate the presence of pain. Using a pain scale appropriate for non-verbal patients is important, but it may not always provide immediate feedback. Observing for facial expressions or other non-verbal cues can be subjective and may not always accurately reflect the level of pain the patient is experiencing. Therefore, monitoring vital signs is a more objective way to assess pain in non-verbal patients.

2. A client who is 97 years old has successfully been treated for heart failure and is found not breathing. There is no DNR order in place. What should the nurse do?

• A. Notify the family and await further instructions.
• B. Initiate CPR and call for emergency assistance.
• C. Allow the family to make decisions about care.
• D. Follow the family's wishes and perform no interventions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, with no DNR order in place and the client not breathing, the nurse should initiate CPR and call for emergency assistance. Option A is incorrect as immediate action is required in the absence of breathing. Option C is incorrect as the nurse should act promptly to provide life-saving measures. Option D is incorrect because the nurse's primary duty is to provide care in the absence of a directive preventing intervention.

3. A nurse discovers a discrepancy in the narcotics log. What is the appropriate next step?

• A. Correct the log and notify the pharmacy.
• B. Report the discrepancy to the nurse manager.
• C. Re-administer the narcotic.
• D. Dispose of the narcotic and note the discrepancy.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a nurse discovers a discrepancy in the narcotics log, the appropriate next step is to report the discrepancy to the nurse manager. This is important to ensure that the issue is properly investigated and addressed. Choice A is incorrect because simply correcting the log and notifying the pharmacy may not address the root cause of the discrepancy. Choice C is incorrect as re-administering the narcotic without clarification could lead to potential harm or legal issues. Choice D is incorrect as disposing of the narcotic without following proper protocols and documentation could result in further complications.

4. A nurse is reviewing the medication orders for a client with heart failure. Which of the following medications should the nurse clarify with the provider?

• A. Furosemide
• B. Spironolactone
• C. Digoxin
• D. Ibuprofen

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can worsen heart failure due to its effects on renal function and fluid retention. Therefore, the nurse should clarify the use of Ibuprofen with the provider. Choices A, B, and C (Furosemide, Spironolactone, and Digoxin) are commonly prescribed medications for heart failure that help manage symptoms and improve cardiac function, so they do not need clarification in this scenario.

5. A staff nurse is challenging a shift assignment with the charge nurse. Which of the following statements made by the charge nurse is an example of smoothing as a strategy to resolve conflict?

• A. If you accept this assignment today, I will let you choose your assignment tomorrow
• B. If you don't agree with the assignment, I will have to report your decision to the nursing supervisor
• C. Let's just focus on giving our client medications on time
• D. You have a lot of experience, so I'm sure you're capable of these tasks

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it exemplifies smoothing as a conflict resolution strategy. Smoothing involves downplaying conflict and reassuring the individual to reduce tension. In this statement, the charge nurse acknowledges the staff nurse's experience and capability to perform the assigned tasks, which aims to reduce conflict and promote a positive outlook. Choices A, B, and C do not reflect smoothing. Choice A involves a conditional agreement, choice B introduces a threat of reporting, and choice C shifts the focus away from the conflict.

Similar Questions