Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a client scheduled for removal of a pituitary tumor using the transsphenoidal approach. The nurse should be particularly alert for:

• A. Nasal congestion
• B. Abdominal tenderness
• C. Muscle tetany
• D. Oliguria

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During the removal of a pituitary tumor using the transsphenoidal approach, nasal congestion is a significant concern as it can further obstruct the airway. This can be due to mucosal swelling, bleeding, or edema resulting from the surgery. Nasal congestion requires immediate attention to prevent airway compromise. Abdominal tenderness, muscle tetany, and oliguria are not directly associated with the pituitary gland or the transsphenoidal approach, making them incorrect choices. Abdominal tenderness is more common in abdominal or pelvic surgeries due to intra-abdominal issues. Muscle tetany is related to electrolyte imbalances or neuromuscular disorders, not specific to pituitary surgery. Oliguria is a concern in renal-related conditions, not typically in pituitary tumor surgeries.

2. The nurse is caring for a dying client who has persistently requested that the nurse 'help her to die and be in peace.' According to the Code of Ethics for Nurses, the nurse should:

• A. Ask the client if she has signed an advance directives document.
• B. Tell the client that another nurse will be assigned to care for her.
• C. Instruct the client that only a physician can legally assist in suicide.
• D. Try to make the client as comfortable as possible, but refuse to assist in death.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: According to the Code of Ethics for Nurses, the nurse should try to make the client as comfortable as possible but refuse to assist in death. It is not within the scope of nursing practice to assist in death, even if requested by the client. Choice A is incorrect as advance directives do not directly relate to the client's request for assistance in dying. Choice B is inappropriate as passing the responsibility to another nurse does not address the ethical dilemma at hand. Choice C is incorrect because instructing the client that only a physician can legally assist in suicide does not address the ethical considerations involved in the request. Therefore, the most appropriate action for the nurse is to provide comfort measures while upholding ethical standards and not participating in ending the client's life.

3. Following the change of shift report, when can or should the nurse alter or modify the plan?

• A. halfway through the shift
• B. at the end of the shift before handing over
• C. when needs change
• D. after the top-priority tasks have been completed

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'when needs change.' The nurse should be flexible and adjust the plan as necessary when the needs of the patients change. This ensures that care is provided effectively and efficiently. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because altering the plan based on time intervals, solely at the end of the shift, or after completing top-priority tasks may not align with the current needs of the patients.

4. A primary belief of psychiatric mental health nursing is:

• A. Most people have the potential to change and grow.
• B. Every person is worthy of dignity and respect.
• C. Human needs are individual to each person.
• D. Some behaviors have no meaning and cannot be understood.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is that every person is worthy of dignity and respect. This is a fundamental principle in psychiatric mental health nursing, emphasizing the importance of treating individuals with dignity and respect regardless of their condition. This belief forms the basis of establishing a therapeutic nurse-client relationship. Choice A is a positive belief, but the primary focus in psychiatric mental health nursing is on respecting the worth and dignity of each individual. Choice C is related to understanding individual human needs but does not encompass the core value of dignity and respect. Choice D is incorrect as psychiatric nursing emphasizes the importance of interpreting and understanding all behaviors as meaningful expressions of the client's experience.

5. When providing culturally competent care to a couple from the Philippines living in the United States who are expecting their first child, what should the nurse do first?

• A. review their own cultural beliefs and biases
• B. respectfully request that the couple only use medically approved health care providers
• C. understand the clients' need to learn the accepted medical practices of their new country
• D. study family dynamics to comprehend the male and female gender roles in the clients' culture

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When providing culturally competent care, the nurse's initial step is to reflect on and understand their own cultural beliefs and biases. By doing so, the nurse can approach the care of the couple from the Philippines with sensitivity and respect. This self-awareness helps the nurse recognize potential differences in beliefs and values, fostering effective communication and care. Option B is incorrect because it does not address the nurse's need for self-reflection. Option C is incorrect as it focuses on the clients adapting to the new country's practices rather than the nurse understanding the clients' existing beliefs. Option D is incorrect as it pertains to family dynamics and gender roles rather than the nurse's self-awareness.

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