Nursing Elites

1. The client with a chest tube after a coronary artery bypass graft has significantly slowed drainage. What action is most important for the nurse to take?

• A. Increase the setting on the suction.
• B. Notify the provider immediately.
• C. Re-position the chest tube.
• D. Take the tubing apart to assess for clots.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: If the drainage from the chest tube decreases significantly, it may indicate a blockage by a clot, potentially leading to cardiac tamponade. The nurse's priority action should be to notify the healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and intervention. Increasing suction, re-positioning the chest tube, or disassembling the tubing independently are not appropriate actions without healthcare provider guidance in this situation.

2. After an open lung biopsy, a nurse assesses a client. Which assessment finding is matched with the correct intervention?

• A. Client states he is dizzy. Nurse applies oxygen and pulse oximetry.
• B. Client's HR is 55 beats/min. Nurse withholds pain medication.
• C. Client has reduced breath sounds. Nurse calls the physician immediately.
• D. Client's RR is 18 breaths/min. Nurse decreases the oxygen flow rate.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After an open lung biopsy, a potential complication is pneumothorax, often indicated by reduced or absent breath sounds. The nurse should promptly notify the physician to address this serious issue and ensure timely intervention.

3. When interviewing a client recently diagnosed with lung cancer and having a 60-pack-year smoking history, what is the most important action for the nurse to take?

• A. Educate the client about the importance of quitting smoking to halt cancer progression.
• B. Encourage the client to disclose both tobacco and marijuana use openly.
• C. Maintain a nonjudgmental attitude to promote honest communication with the client.
• D. Provide realistic information about cancer treatment and prognosis without giving false hope.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Maintaining a nonjudgmental attitude during the interview is crucial to create a safe environment where the client feels comfortable and open about disclosing their smoking history and other relevant information. This approach helps establish trust and facilitates an honest conversation which is essential for providing appropriate care and support to the client.

4. When reviewing the provider's orders, a nurse recognizes that clarification is needed for which of the following medications in a client experiencing an exacerbation of asthma?

• A. Propranolol
• B. Theophylline
• C. Montelukast
• D. Prednisone

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is Propranolol. Propranolol is a beta-blocker that can potentially exacerbate asthma symptoms due to its mechanism of action. It can cause bronchoconstriction, which is harmful for a client experiencing an asthma exacerbation. Theophylline, Montelukast, and Prednisone are commonly used in the treatment of asthma exacerbations and would not typically require clarification in this context.

5. Prior to a thoracentesis, what intervention should the nurse complete?

• A. Measure oxygen saturation before and after the procedure.
• B. Verify that the client has given informed consent.
• C. Explain the procedure briefly to the client and their family.
• D. Ensure informed consent has been obtained from the client.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Before a thoracentesis procedure, it is crucial to ensure that the client has given informed consent. This process involves explaining the procedure, its risks, benefits, and alternatives to the client, and obtaining their signature on the consent form. Verifying informed consent is a vital legal and ethical step to protect the client's autonomy and ensure they have made an informed decision about the procedure.

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