Nursing Elites

1. In a patient with anemia, which of the following is the primary symptom to assess?

• A. Fever.
• B. Chest pain.
• C. Shortness of breath.
• D. Muscle cramps.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Shortness of breath. In a patient with anemia, the primary symptom to assess is shortness of breath. Anemia leads to a reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, resulting in tissues not receiving adequate oxygen. This can manifest as shortness of breath, especially during physical exertion. Fever (Choice A), chest pain (Choice B), and muscle cramps (Choice D) are not typically primary symptoms of anemia. Fever may suggest an infection, chest pain can be indicative of cardiac issues, and muscle cramps may be related to electrolyte imbalances or neuromuscular disorders.

2. A nurse is suctioning a client through a tracheostomy tube. During the procedure, the client begins to cough, and the nurse hears a wheeze. The nurse tries to remove the suction catheter from the client’s trachea but is unable to do so. What should the nurse do first?

• A. Call a code
• B. Contact the physician
• C. Administer a bronchodilator
• D. Disconnect the suction source from the catheter

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Inability to remove a suction catheter is a critical situation that may indicate the presence of bronchospasm and bronchoconstriction, as evidenced by the client coughing and wheezing. The immediate action for the nurse is to disconnect the suction source from the catheter, allowing the catheter to remain in the trachea. By doing so, the nurse can then connect the oxygen source to the catheter to provide essential oxygenation to the client. Contacting the physician is necessary to notify them of the situation and to obtain further orders, typically for an inhaled bronchodilator to relieve the bronchospasm. Administering a bronchodilator without physician's orders is not within the nurse's scope of practice and should not be the first action. Calling a code would be excessive at this point and should only be done if the client's condition deteriorates and immediate resuscitation is required.

3. The client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is being taught about the necessary sodium restriction in the diet to prevent edema and hypertension. Which statement by the client indicates more teaching is needed?

• A. I am thrilled that I can continue to eat fast food.
• B. I will cut out bacon with my eggs every morning.
• C. My cooking style will change by not adding salt.
• D. I will probably lose weight by cutting out potato chips.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Choice A, 'I am thrilled that I can continue to eat fast food,' indicates a lack of understanding as fast food is typically high in sodium, which is detrimental for individuals with CKD. The client should be advised to avoid fast food due to its high sodium content. Choices B, C, and D demonstrate a good understanding of the need for sodium restriction in the diet to prevent complications associated with CKD. Cutting out bacon, avoiding salt in cooking, and eliminating high-sodium snacks like potato chips are all positive steps towards managing CKD.

4. The patient is being educated on taking hydrochlorothiazide. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I may need additional sodium and calcium while taking this medication.
• B. I should consume plenty of fruits and vegetables while taking this drug.
• C. I should be cautious when getting up from a bed or chair while on this medication.
• D. I will take the medication in the morning to reduce certain side effects.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because patients do not require extra sodium or calcium while taking hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic. This medication actually promotes the excretion of sodium and water. Choices B, C, and D are correct statements regarding the use of hydrochlorothiazide. Patients are encouraged to have a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, be careful with position changes due to potential orthostatic hypotension, and take the medication in the morning to reduce the need for frequent urination during nighttime.

5. A client expresses difficulty voiding in public places. How should the nurse respond?

• A. Offer to turn on the faucet in the bathroom to help stimulate urination.
• B. Suggest a prescription for a diuretic to increase urine output.
• C. Propose moving to a room with a private bathroom to enhance comfort.
• D. Close the curtain to provide maximum privacy.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should prioritize the client's privacy when addressing issues related to voiding discomfort in public places. Closing the curtain in the current room would offer immediate privacy and support the client's needs. Turning on the faucet is not an evidence-based intervention for voiding difficulties. Prescribing a diuretic is not appropriate without further assessment. While moving to a room with a private bathroom might be ideal, it may not be immediately feasible, making ensuring privacy in the current setting the most appropriate action.

Similar Questions