Nursing Elites

1. The healthcare provider is caring for a postoperative client who has a chest tube connected to suction and a water seal drainage system. Which of the following indicates to the healthcare provider that the chest tube is functioning properly?

• A. Fluctuation of the fluid level within the water seal chamber
• B. Absence of fluid in the drainage tubing
• C. Continuous bubbling within the water seal chamber
• D. Equal amounts of fluid drainage in each collection chamber

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Fluctuation of the fluid level within the water seal chamber indicates proper functioning of the chest tube. This fluctuation reflects the normal ebb and flow of air and fluid in the pleural space, demonstrating that the system is maintaining the appropriate pressure. Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber may indicate an air leak, absence of fluid in the drainage tubing suggests a blockage, and equal amounts of fluid drainage in each collection chamber are not expected in this system.

2. A client with Parkinson's disease is prescribed carbidopa-levodopa (Sinemet). What should the nurse include in the teaching about this medication?

• A. Take the medication without a high-protein meal.
• B. Expect the medication to take several weeks to reach full effectiveness.
• C. The medication may cause urine to turn light.
• D. You may experience a rapid heartbeat as a common side effect.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Patients prescribed carbidopa-levodopa should be informed that it may take several weeks for the medication to reach its full therapeutic effectiveness in managing Parkinson's disease symptoms. This delayed onset of action is important for patients to be aware of to prevent premature discontinuation of the medication due to perceived lack of efficacy.

3. In an emergency department, a healthcare provider is preparing to care for a client with multiple system trauma following a motor vehicle crash. What should be the priority focus of care?

• A. Airway protection
• B. Decreasing intracranial pressure
• C. Stabilizing cardiac arrhythmias
• D. Preventing musculoskeletal disability

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a client with multiple system trauma, airway protection is the priority focus of care. Ensuring a patent airway is crucial for oxygenation and ventilation, which are essential for maintaining vital functions. Without a clear airway, the client's oxygenation and ventilation could be compromised, leading to severe consequences. While decreasing intracranial pressure, stabilizing cardiac arrhythmias, and preventing musculoskeletal disability are important aspects of care, ensuring airway protection takes precedence in this emergency situation.

4. A client is caring for a postoperative client on the surgical unit. The client's blood pressure was 142/76 mm Hg 30 minutes ago and is now 88/50 mm Hg. What action by the nurse is best?

• A. Call the Rapid Response Team.
• B. Document and continue to monitor.
• C. Notify the primary care provider.
• D. Repeat blood pressure measurement in 15 minutes.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the significant drop in blood pressure indicates a potential emergency situation. The correct action is to call the Rapid Response Team (RRT) to ensure prompt intervention and prevent further deterioration that could lead to respiratory or cardiac arrest. It is crucial to act swiftly in response to such a critical change in vital signs to provide the client with the necessary care and support.

5. A client is 1 day postoperative following a lobectomy with a chest tube drainage system in place. Which finding by the nurse indicates a need for intervention?

• A. Chest tube eyelets not visible
• B. Continuous bubbling in the suction control chamber
• C. Presence of tidal fluctuation in the water seal chamber
• D. Development of subcutaneous emphysema

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The development of subcutaneous emphysema is a concerning finding that requires immediate intervention. Subcutaneous emphysema results from air leaking into the tissues, which can lead to respiratory compromise. It is important to address this issue promptly to prevent further complications. The other options are normal or expected findings in a chest tube drainage system. Chest tube eyelets not being visible may indicate dislodgement, continuous bubbling in the suction control chamber indicates proper functioning, and the presence of tidal fluctuation in the water seal chamber demonstrates appropriate drainage and lung re-expansion.

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