Nursing Elites

1. While suctioning the endotracheal tube of an adult client, what level of pressure should the nurse apply?

• A. 70-80 mmHg
• B. 100-120 mmHg
• C. 150-170 mmHg
• D. 200 mmHg

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When suctioning the endotracheal tube of an adult client, the nurse should set the suction apparatus at a level no higher than 150 mmHg, with a preferable level between 100 and 120 mmHg. Suction pressure that is too high can contribute to the client's hypoxia. Alternatively, too low suction pressure may not clear adequate amounts of secretions. Choice A (70-80 mmHg) is too low and may not effectively clear secretions. Choices C (150-170 mmHg) and D (200 mmHg) are too high and can potentially harm the client by causing hypoxia or damaging the airway.

2. Which of the following interventions should the nurse use when working with a Jackson-Pratt drain?

• A. Strip the tubing to remove clots by milking the tubing back toward the client
• B. Empty the drain when the amount of fluid reaches 25 cc
• C. Strip the tubing to remove clots by milking the tubing away from the client
• D. Maintain the level of the drain above the client's incision

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A Jackson-Pratt drain is a type of active wound drain that may be placed following a surgical procedure. This drain actively draws excess blood and fluid out of the wound. If clots develop within the tubing, the nurse should strip the tubing by milking it in a direction away from the client. This action helps to ensure the drain remains patent and effective. Option A is incorrect because the tubing should be milked away from the client, not towards. Option B is incorrect as the drain should be emptied based on the healthcare provider's orders, not at a fixed volume. Option D is incorrect because the level of the drain should be below the level of the incision to allow drainage by gravity.

3. A client is in need of hemodialysis for end-stage renal failure. The physician has inserted an AV fistula. Which of the following nursing interventions is appropriate when caring for this access site?

• A. Assess for clotting in fistula tubing
• B. Apply a dressing over the fistula site
• C. Assess for a bruit or thrill at the site of the fistula
• D. Assess circulation proximal to the fistula site

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When caring for an AV fistula used for hemodialysis, it is important to assess for a bruit (a humming sound) or thrill (a vibrating sensation) at the site of the fistula. These indicate proper blood flow through the fistula, ensuring it is patent and suitable for hemodialysis. Assessing for clotting in fistula tubing (Choice A) is not a routine nursing intervention for AV fistulas. Applying a dressing over the fistula site (Choice B) is not necessary as the site needs to be accessible for hemodialysis. Assessing circulation proximal to the fistula site (Choice D) is important but not specific to caring for the access site of an AV fistula.

4. An 85-year-old client is diagnosed with hypernatremia due to lack of fluid intake and dehydration. The nurse knows that symptoms of hypernatremia include:

• A. Lack of thirst
• B. Pale skin
• C. Hypertension
• D. Swollen tongue

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Hypernatremia among elderly clients can result from dehydration and insufficient fluid intake, leading to sodium levels above 145 mEq/L. Common symptoms of hypernatremia include mental status changes, a thick or swollen tongue, excessive thirst, and flushed skin. Choice A, 'Lack of thirst,' is incorrect as hypernatremia typically presents with excessive thirst. Choice B, 'Pale skin,' is not a typical symptom of hypernatremia. Choice C, 'Hypertension,' is not a direct symptom of hypernatremia and is more commonly associated with other conditions like hypertension itself.

5. A patient with leukemia is receiving chemotherapy that is known to depress bone marrow. A CBC (complete blood count) reveals a platelet count of 25,000/microliter. Which of the following actions related specifically to the platelet count should be included in the nursing care plan?

• A. Monitor for fever every 4 hours.
• B. Require visitors to wear respiratory masks and protective clothing.
• C. Consider transfusion of packed red blood cells.
• D. Check for signs of bleeding, including examination of urine and stool for blood.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A platelet count of 25,000/microliter indicates severe thrombocytopenia, which increases the risk of bleeding. It is crucial to initiate bleeding precautions, including regularly checking for signs of bleeding such as examining urine and stool for blood. Monitoring for fever every 4 hours (Choice A) should be included for neutropenic precautions, not specifically related to platelet count. Requiring visitors to wear respiratory masks and protective clothing (Choice B) is more relevant for patients with airborne precautions. Considering transfusion of packed red blood cells (Choice C) is not indicated for low platelet count but is more appropriate for managing anemia or low hemoglobin levels.

Similar Questions