Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a female client experiencing neutropenia as a result of chemotherapy and develops a plan of care for the client. The nurse plans to:

• A. Restrict all visitors
• B. Restrict fluid intake
• C. Teach the client and family about the need for hand hygiene
• D. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter to prevent skin breakdown

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In clients experiencing neutropenia due to chemotherapy, the immune system is significantly compromised, leaving the client highly susceptible to infections. Meticulous hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent infections in neutropenic patients. Teaching the client and their family the importance of frequent and proper handwashing helps reduce the transmission of harmful pathogens that could lead to severe infections in the neutropenic client. This simple but essential intervention is crucial in maintaining a safe environment.

2. The nurse is monitoring a client for signs and symptoms related to superior vena cava syndrome. Which is an early sign of this oncological emergency?

• A. Cyanosis
• B. Arm edema
• C. Periorbital edema
• D. Mental status changes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) occurs when the superior vena cava, the large vein that carries blood from the upper body to the heart, becomes compressed or obstructed, often by a tumor or enlarged lymph nodes, typically in cancers like lung cancer or lymphoma. The obstruction leads to increased venous pressure and reduced blood flow, resulting in swelling and edema in areas drained by the superior vena cava. Periorbital edema (swelling around the eyes) is one of the earliest signs of SVCS. This occurs because the impaired venous return causes fluid to accumulate in the soft tissues of the face, especially around the eyes. As the condition progresses, facial swelling can worsen, and other symptoms develop.

3. A client is admitted with superior vena cava syndrome. What action by the nurse is most appropriate?

• A. Administer a dose of allopurinol.
• B. Assess the client’s serum potassium level.
• C. Gently inquire about advance directives.
• D. Prepare the client for emergency surgery.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to gently inquire about advance directives. Superior vena cava syndrome is often a late-stage manifestation, indicating a serious condition. Discussing advance directives with the client is crucial to ensure their wishes are known in case of deterioration. Administering allopurinol (Choice A) is not indicated for superior vena cava syndrome. Assessing the client’s serum potassium level (Choice B) is not the priority when managing this syndrome. Emergency surgery (Choice D) is not typically the initial treatment for superior vena cava syndrome.

4. The nurse should plan to implement which intervention in the care of a client experiencing neutropenia as a result of chemotherapy?

• A. Restrict all visitors.
• B. Restrict fluid intake.
• C. Teach the client and family about the need for hand hygiene.
• D. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter to prevent skin breakdown.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In clients experiencing neutropenia, particularly due to chemotherapy, the immune system is significantly compromised, increasing the risk of infections. Hand hygiene is one of the most effective methods for preventing the spread of pathogens that can lead to infections. Teaching both the client and their family about the importance of frequent and proper handwashing helps create a safer environment and reduces the risk of infections, which can be critical in neutropenic patients.

5. Nurse Jane is providing care for a client with superior vena cava syndrome. Which of the following interventions would be the priority?

• A. Elevate the head of the bed
• B. Administer steroids as prescribed
• C. Provide supplemental oxygen
• D. Administer diuretics as prescribed

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to elevate the head of the bed. Elevating the head of the bed can help reduce the pressure on the superior vena cava, improve venous return, and facilitate breathing in clients with superior vena cava syndrome. Administering steroids (Choice B) may be necessary in some cases, but it is not the priority in the immediate care of a client with superior vena cava syndrome. Providing supplemental oxygen (Choice C) may help improve oxygenation but does not directly address the underlying issue of venous congestion. Administering diuretics (Choice D) may be contraindicated as it can further decrease preload and worsen the condition in superior vena cava syndrome.

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