Nursing Elites

1. How should a healthcare professional position a patient to reduce the risk of pressure ulcers?

• A. Position the patient in the supine position for long periods.
• B. Use pillows to support bony prominences.
• C. Turn the patient every 4 hours.
• D. Place the patient on an alternating pressure mattress.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Correctly positioning a patient to reduce the risk of pressure ulcers involves using pillows to support bony prominences. This helps to relieve pressure from vulnerable areas and prevent the development of pressure ulcers. Choice A is incorrect because keeping a patient in the supine position for extended periods can increase the risk of pressure ulcers. Choice C is incorrect as turning the patient every 2 hours, rather than every 4 hours, is recommended to prevent pressure ulcers. Choice D is not the best option mentioned for positioning a patient to reduce pressure ulcer risk; although alternating pressure mattresses can be beneficial, using pillows for support is a more direct and commonly used method.

2. A client with diabetes mellitus is prescribed prednisone for a rash. Which statement by the client indicates the need for further teaching?

• A. I might have trouble falling asleep while taking prednisone
• B. I might feel emotional when I am on this medicine
• C. I might need to increase my regular insulin during this time
• D. I will gradually stop the prednisone when my rash goes away

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Prednisone should never be stopped abruptly; it must be tapered down. Stopping it suddenly can lead to adrenal insufficiency. Choices A, B, and C are all potential side effects or considerations when taking prednisone and do not indicate a need for further teaching.

3. A patient is being treated for dehydration. Which lab result would support the diagnosis?

• A. Elevated hemoglobin
• B. Low sodium level
• C. High white blood cell count
• D. Elevated BUN

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Elevated BUN levels are a characteristic finding in dehydration due to reduced kidney perfusion and increased reabsorption of urea. Hemoglobin levels might be elevated in conditions like polycythemia vera, not directly related to dehydration. A low sodium level could be seen in conditions like hyponatremia. A high white blood cell count is more indicative of infection or inflammation rather than dehydration.

4. A client has a new prescription for lisinopril. Which of the following statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I should take this medication with food
• B. I should report a cough to my provider
• C. I should expect to have facial swelling when taking this medication
• D. I should increase my intake of potassium-rich foods

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Reporting a cough is crucial when taking lisinopril as it can be a sign of a serious side effect, such as angioedema or cough associated with ACE inhibitors. Option A is incorrect because lisinopril can be taken with or without food. Option C is incorrect as facial swelling is not an expected side effect of lisinopril. Option D is incorrect because lisinopril can cause hyperkalemia, so increasing potassium-rich foods without healthcare provider guidance can be dangerous.

5. A patient recovering from a stroke has difficulty swallowing. Which action should the nurse prioritize?

• A. Begin feeding the patient soft solids.
• B. Place the patient on NPO (nothing by mouth) status.
• C. Provide ice chips to help soothe the throat.
• D. Start the patient on a clear liquid diet.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to place the patient on NPO (nothing by mouth) status. Patients recovering from a stroke with difficulty swallowing are at high risk for aspiration, which can lead to serious complications like aspiration pneumonia. Therefore, the priority is to keep the patient on NPO until a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider is completed. Choice A is incorrect as feeding the patient soft solids can increase the risk of aspiration. Choice C is incorrect as providing ice chips may further compromise swallowing safety. Choice D is incorrect as starting the patient on a clear liquid diet can also increase the risk of aspiration in this scenario.

Similar Questions