Nursing Elites

1. The healthcare provider prescribes oxytocin 2 milliunits/minute to induce labor for a client at 41-weeks gestation. The nurse initiates an infusion of Ringer’s Lactate solution 1000 mL with oxytocin 10 units. How many mL/hour should the nurse program the infusion pump?

• A. 12 mL/hour
• B. 2 mL/hour
• C. 22 mL/hour
• D. 42 mL/hour

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To calculate the infusion rate in mL/hour, first, convert 2 milliunits/minute to milliunits/hour by multiplying by 60 to get 120 milliunits/hour. Then, calculate the mL/hour using the formula: milliunits/hour (120) × total volume (1000 mL) ÷ units in IV solution (10 units) = 1200 mL/hour. Therefore, the nurse should program the infusion pump to deliver 12 mL/hour to provide the prescribed dose of oxytocin. Choice B is incorrect as it does not reflect the correct calculation. Choice C is incorrect as it is not derived from the correct formula. Choice D is incorrect as it is not the result of the accurate calculation based on the provided information.

2. Which intervention is most helpful in relieving postpartum uterine contractions or 'afterpains'?

• A. Lying prone with a pillow on the abdomen.
• B. Using a breast pump.
• C. Massaging the abdomen.
• D. Giving oxytocic medications.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Lying prone with a pillow on the abdomen is the most helpful intervention in relieving postpartum uterine contractions or 'afterpains.' This position provides counter-pressure and support to the uterus, helping to alleviate discomfort and promote uterine involution. Choice B, using a breast pump, is not effective in relieving afterpains as it focuses on milk expression. Massaging the abdomen (Choice C) may help with discomfort but does not provide the same level of support as lying prone with a pillow. Giving oxytocic medications (Choice D) is not typically the first-line intervention for afterpains unless there are specific medical indications.

3. A child who received multiple blood transfusions after correction of a congenital heart defect is demonstrating muscular irritability and oozing blood from the surgical incision. Which serum value is most important for the nurse to obtain before reporting to the healthcare provider?

• A. CO2 combining power
• B. Calcium
• C. Sodium
• D. Chloride

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is Calcium. In this scenario, the child is displaying symptoms of muscular irritability and oozing blood, which are indicative of hypocalcemia. Calcium levels are crucial to monitor after multiple blood transfusions to prevent complications such as hypocalcemia, which can lead to these symptoms. Therefore, obtaining a serum calcium value is essential for the nurse to assess and address the child's condition effectively. CO2 combining power, Sodium, and Chloride levels are not directly associated with the symptoms described and are not the priority in this situation.

4. During a newborn assessment, which symptom would indicate respiratory distress if present in a newborn?

• A. Flaring of the nares.
• B. Shallow and irregular respirations.
• C. Respiratory rate of 50 breaths per minute.
• D. Abdominal breathing with synchronous chest movement.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Flaring of the nares is a classic sign of respiratory distress in newborns. It indicates that the newborn is working hard to breathe, and immediate attention should be given to assess and address the respiratory status of the infant.

5. A 6-week-old infant diagnosed with pyloric stenosis has recently developed projectile vomiting. Which assessment finding indicates to the nurse that the infant is becoming dehydrated?

• A. Weak cry without tears.
• B. Bulging fontanel.
• C. Visible peristaltic wave.
• D. Palpable mass in the right upper quadrant.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In infants, a weak cry without tears is a classic sign of dehydration. Tears are produced by the lacrimal glands, and reduced tear production is a result of dehydration. This assessment finding should alert the nurse to the infant's dehydration status, requiring prompt intervention to prevent further complications.

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