how should a nurse manage a patient with diarrhea

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2024

1. How should a healthcare professional manage a patient with diarrhea?

A. Provide oral fluids and monitor stool consistency
B. Administer antidiarrheal medications and monitor hydration
C. Monitor for electrolyte imbalances and provide antibiotics
D. Provide a low-fiber diet and monitor weight

Correct answer: A

Rationale: For a patient with diarrhea, the priority is to manage dehydration by providing oral fluids and monitoring stool consistency. Option B suggesting administering antidiarrheal medications is not recommended as it may prolong the infection by preventing the body from expelling the infectious agent. Option C is incorrect because antibiotics are not routinely indicated for diarrhea unless there is a specific bacterial infection. Option D is not the most appropriate initial intervention for managing diarrhea since a low-fiber diet may not provide adequate nutrition for the patient or help resolve the underlying cause of diarrhea.

2. A client with asthma is being taught how to use a peak flow meter by a nurse. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Perform the test in the morning after taking medications
B. Blow into the meter as slowly as possible
C. Perform the test when feeling short of breath
D. Use the peak flow meter after using your rescue inhaler

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction is to use the peak flow meter after using the rescue inhaler. This ensures accurate monitoring of asthma control during symptoms. Choice A is incorrect because peak flow measurements should be done before taking medications. Choice B is incorrect as the client should blow into the meter quickly and forcefully to get an accurate reading. Choice C is also incorrect as peak flow should be measured regularly, not just when feeling short of breath.

3. A nurse is reinforcing discharge instructions with the parent of an infant who has rotavirus. Which of the following statements by the parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. I will avoid feeding my baby for 12 hours
B. I will apply diaper cream during each diaper change
C. I will give my baby water between feedings
D. I will apply warm compresses for my baby's comfort

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Applying diaper cream during each diaper change is important to prevent skin breakdown in infants with rotavirus. Rotavirus can cause diarrhea, which can lead to skin irritation. Avoiding feeding the baby for 12 hours (choice A) can lead to dehydration and is not appropriate. Giving water between feedings (choice C) can further contribute to dehydration. Applying warm compresses (choice D) may provide comfort but does not address the specific issue of preventing skin breakdown associated with rotavirus.

4. A client has undergone a bronchoscopy, and a nurse is providing care post-procedure. What should the nurse do first?

A. Monitor the client's oxygen levels
B. Encourage the client to eat
C. Check for a gag reflex
D. Administer IV fluids

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After a bronchoscopy, the nurse's priority is to check for a gag reflex. This action helps assess the client's ability to protect their airway after sedation. Maintaining airway patency is crucial post-procedure. Monitoring oxygen levels is important but ensuring airway protection takes precedence. Encouraging the client to eat and administering IV fluids are essential aspects of care but are not the immediate priority in this situation.

5. A client with a chest tube is post-op. What is the priority nursing action?

A. Clamp the chest tube every 2 hours
B. Check for air leaks and proper functioning of the chest tube
C. Encourage deep breathing and coughing every 2 hours
D. Encourage frequent coughing to clear secretions

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to check for air leaks and ensure the proper functioning of the chest tube. This action is crucial post-op to prevent complications such as pneumothorax or hemothorax. Clamping the chest tube every 2 hours (Choice A) is incorrect as it can lead to a buildup of pressure within the chest, risking complications. Encouraging deep breathing and coughing every 2 hours (Choice C) is important for respiratory hygiene but not the priority over ensuring the chest tube's proper function. Encouraging frequent coughing to clear secretions (Choice D) is not the priority when assessing a chest tube post-op; ensuring the chest tube's integrity and function take precedence.