Nursing Elites

1. What is the initial technique used when examining a client's abdomen?

• A. Palpation
• B. Auscultation
• C. Percussion
• D. Inspection

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When examining a client's abdomen, the initial technique used is inspection. Inspection involves visually assessing the abdomen for any abnormalities, such as distention, scars, or rashes. This step allows the healthcare provider to gather valuable information before proceeding to other examination techniques like palpation, auscultation, and percussion. Palpation, auscultation, and percussion are secondary techniques used after visual inspection to further assess the abdomen for specific findings. Palpation involves feeling the abdomen for masses or tenderness, auscultation is listening for bowel sounds, and percussion is tapping the abdomen to assess for areas of dullness or resonance.

2. A client with depression reports taking St. John's wort along with citalopram. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following conditions as a result of an interaction between these substances?

• A. Serotonin syndrome
• B. Tardive dyskinesia
• C. Pseudoparkinsonism
• D. Acute dystonia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When St. John's wort, an herbal supplement, is taken with citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), there is a risk of serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is a serious condition that can occur when there is an excess of serotonin in the body, leading to symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, increased body temperature, and more. Monitoring for serotonin syndrome is crucial when these substances are taken together to prevent any potential harm to the client.

3. A client with vision loss is under the care of a nurse. Which of the following actions should the nurse AVOID?

• A. Keep objects in the client's room in the same place
• B. Ensure there is high-wattage lighting in the client's room
• C. Approach the client from the side
• D. Allow extra time for the client to perform tasks

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Approaching a client with vision loss from the side can startle them and may lead to accidents or discomfort. It is important to approach them from the front so they are aware of your presence. Keeping objects in the same place aids in familiarity and reduces the risk of falls. High-wattage lighting enhances visibility for the client. Allowing extra time for tasks accommodates the client's potential slower pace and ensures they can perform tasks safely.

4. A client in the emergency department is experiencing an acute asthma attack. Which assessment indicates an improvement in respiratory status?

• A. SaO2 95%
• B. Wheezing
• C. Retraction of sternal muscles
• D. Premature ventricular complexes (PVC's)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An SaO2 of 95% indicates an improvement in the client's oxygen saturation, suggesting better respiratory status. In asthma exacerbation, a decrease in SaO2 levels would signal worsening respiratory distress. Wheezing, retraction of sternal muscles, and premature ventricular complexes are indicators of respiratory compromise and worsening respiratory status in acute asthma attacks. Monitoring SaO2 levels is crucial in assessing the effectiveness of interventions and guiding treatment decisions.

5. During physical therapy, a client with Parkinson's disease makes the following statements. Which statement indicates the need for a referral to physical therapy?

• A. ''I have been experiencing more tremors in my left arm than before''
• B. ''I noticed that I am having a harder time holding on to my toothbrush''
• C. ''Lately, I feel like my feet are freezing up, as they are stuck to the ground''
• D. ''Sometimes, I feel I am making a chewing motion when I'm not eating''

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Feeling like the feet are freezing up and sticking to the ground is a common symptom of Parkinson's disease known as 'freezing of gait.' This symptom significantly impacts mobility and can be dangerous, indicating the need for specialized physical therapy interventions to address gait disturbances and improve mobility.

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