how should a nurse manage a patient with diarrhea
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Nursing Elites

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2024

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

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. What is the most appropriate next step when a client with an NG tube attached to low suctioning becomes nauseated, and the nurse observes a decrease in the flow of gastric secretions?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to irrigate the NG tube with sterile water. When a client with an NG tube attached to low suctioning becomes nauseated and there is a decrease in the flow of gastric secretions, it indicates a possible blockage in the tube. Irrigating the tube with sterile water can help clear the blockage, allowing for proper suctioning and relieving the client's nausea. Increasing the suction pressure (Choice A) can further worsen the issue by potentially causing harm to the client. Turning the client on their side (Choice C) may not address the underlying problem of tube blockage. Replacing the NG tube with a new one (Choice D) should only be considered if other interventions, like irrigation, fail to clear the blockage.

3. A healthcare professional is reviewing the medical history of a client with dementia. Which of the following findings should be addressed immediately?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Restlessness and agitation in clients with dementia should be addressed immediately as they can indicate underlying causes such as pain, discomfort, or unmet needs. Addressing these symptoms promptly can help prevent the escalation of behavioral issues and improve the client's quality of life. While frequent episodes of wandering at night, mild confusion during the day, and incontinence are also important issues to address in clients with dementia, restlessness and agitation usually require immediate attention to ensure the safety and well-being of the client.

4. A client with acute diverticulitis is receiving teaching from a nurse. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the instructions?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. During acute diverticulitis, avoiding fiber is essential as it helps reduce irritation of the intestines. Choice B is incorrect because taking a laxative daily can exacerbate diverticulitis. Choice C is incorrect as IV fluids mainly provide hydration and electrolytes, not all essential nutrients. Choice D is incorrect because during acute diverticulitis, a low-fiber or liquid diet is typically recommended to rest the bowel.

5. A nurse is caring for a client who has a serum sodium level of 125 mEq/L. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Abdominal cramping is a common manifestation of hyponatremia, as the sodium imbalance affects muscle function. Numbness of the extremities (Choice A) is more commonly associated with electrolyte imbalances such as hypocalcemia. Bradycardia (Choice C) is not typically a direct manifestation of hyponatremia. Positive Chvostek's sign (Choice D) is related to hypocalcemia, not hyponatremia.

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