Nursing Elites

1. The healthcare provider is assessing a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which finding requires immediate intervention?

• A. Oxygen saturation of 88%.
• B. Use of accessory muscles for breathing.
• C. Respiratory rate of 26 breaths per minute.
• D. Barrel-shaped chest.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A respiratory rate of 26 breaths per minute is an abnormal finding and indicates that the client is experiencing respiratory distress, requiring immediate intervention. This rapid respiratory rate can signify inadequate oxygenation and ventilation. Oxygen saturation of 88% is low but not as immediately concerning as a high respiratory rate, which indicates the body is compensating for respiratory distress. The use of accessory muscles for breathing and a barrel-shaped chest are typical findings in clients with COPD but do not indicate an immediate need for intervention as they are more chronic in nature and may be seen in stable COPD patients.

2. During a health assessment for a family with a history of cardiovascular disease, which family member should be prioritized for further evaluation and intervention?

• A. a 45-year-old father who smokes and has high cholesterol
• B. a 17-year-old daughter who is overweight and inactive
• C. a 50-year-old mother with a history of hypertension
• D. a 12-year-old son who has a normal weight and is active

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The 45-year-old father who smokes and has high cholesterol should be prioritized for further evaluation and intervention. He has multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including smoking and high cholesterol, which significantly increase his risk. Addressing these modifiable risk factors is crucial in preventing cardiovascular events. The daughter (Choice B) and mother (Choice C) also have risk factors, but the father's combination of smoking and high cholesterol places him at higher immediate risk, demanding priority intervention. The 12-year-old son (Choice D) with a normal weight and an active lifestyle has a lower risk profile and does not require immediate intervention compared to the father.

3. A client with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is admitted with unilateral leg swelling. Which intervention should the nurse implement?

• A. Elevate the affected leg on a pillow.
• B. Apply a warm compress to the affected leg.
• C. Perform passive range-of-motion exercises on the affected leg.
• D. Encourage the client to ambulate frequently.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct intervention for a client with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and unilateral leg swelling is to elevate the affected leg on a pillow. Elevating the affected leg helps reduce swelling and pain by promoting venous return and preventing stasis of blood flow. Applying a warm compress (Choice B) may increase inflammation and worsen the condition. Performing passive range-of-motion exercises (Choice C) and encouraging ambulation (Choice D) can dislodge a clot and lead to potential embolism, making these choices contraindicated in a client with DVT.

4. When caring for a client with a tracheostomy, which action should the nurse take first when performing tracheostomy care?

• A. Remove the inner cannula.
• B. Clean the stoma with normal saline.
• C. Change the tracheostomy ties.
• D. Suction the tracheostomy.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Suctioning the tracheostomy is the priority action because it ensures a patent airway before proceeding with any other tracheostomy care interventions. This step helps clear secretions and maintain airway patency, which is crucial for the client's respiratory status. Removing the inner cannula, cleaning the stoma, or changing the tracheostomy ties can follow once the airway is clear. Therefore, options A, B, and C are secondary actions compared to suctioning the tracheostomy.

5. The school nurse is developing an individualized healthcare plan for a student with type 1 diabetes. Which component is most important to include in the plan?

• A. a schedule for blood glucose monitoring
• B. a list of low-carbohydrate snacks
• C. a contact list of healthcare providers
• D. a log for recording insulin administration

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: a schedule for blood glucose monitoring. Regular blood glucose monitoring is essential in managing type 1 diabetes as it helps in monitoring blood sugar levels, adjusting treatment plans, and preventing complications such as hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Choice B, a list of low-carbohydrate snacks, while important for managing blood sugar levels, is not as critical as consistent blood glucose monitoring. Choice C, a contact list of healthcare providers, though important for emergency situations, is not the most crucial component in managing daily care. Choice D, a log for recording insulin administration, is valuable for tracking insulin doses but does not directly address the immediate need for monitoring blood glucose levels.

Similar Questions