Nursing Elites

1. The healthcare provider is monitoring a client following cardioversion. Which observation should be of the highest priority to the healthcare provider?

• A. Blood pressure
• B. Status of airway
• C. Oxygen flow rate
• D. Level of consciousness

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The status of the airway is the highest priority following cardioversion as it ensures proper oxygenation and helps prevent complications such as airway obstruction and respiratory distress. Maintaining a patent airway is crucial for the client's respiratory function and overall well-being immediately after cardioversion. Monitoring the airway ensures that the client can breathe effectively and minimizes the risk of hypoxia and other serious respiratory issues. While blood pressure, oxygen flow rate, and level of consciousness are also important parameters to monitor, they are secondary to ensuring a clear and patent airway for adequate oxygenation.

2. A client has a new prescription for furosemide. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take the medication with or without food.
• B. Monitor for signs of hypokalemia.
• C. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods.
• D. Expect an increase in urination.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction to include when a client is prescribed furosemide is to expect an increase in urination. Furosemide is a diuretic that works by increasing urine production, so it is essential for the client to anticipate and understand this effect. Monitoring for signs of hypokalemia and increasing potassium-rich foods are not directly related to furosemide use. Hypokalemia is a potential side effect of furosemide, so monitoring for it is crucial. Increasing potassium-rich foods can help counteract potassium loss due to diuretic use. Taking furosemide with food is not required, as it can be taken with or without food.

3. After returning the client to bed following a cardiac catheterization procedure with the left femoral vessel as the access site, the nurse places a sign above the bed instructing the client to remain on bed rest and in which position?

• A. In semi-Fowler's position
• B. With the head of the bed elevated 45 degrees
• C. With the head of the bed elevated no more than 15 degrees
• D. With the foot of the bed elevated as much as tolerated by the client

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After cardiac catheterization via the femoral vessel, it is crucial to keep the head of the bed elevated no more than 15 degrees to prevent bleeding at the access site. This position helps maintain pressure on the femoral artery, reducing the risk of bleeding and complications post-procedure. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not provide the necessary pressure on the femoral artery to prevent bleeding, which is essential after a cardiac catheterization procedure with a femoral access site.

4. The nurse is assisting in the care of a client with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who is on oxygen therapy. Which action should the nurse take to ensure the client's safety?

• A. Set the oxygen flow rate to 4 liters per minute.
• B. Remove oxygen while the client is eating.
• C. Ensure the client wears a nasal cannula instead of a face mask.
• D. Maintain the oxygen flow rate at the lowest level that relieves hypoxia.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: For clients with COPD, too much oxygen can suppress their drive to breathe, leading to hypoventilation. Therefore, the nurse should maintain the oxygen flow rate at the lowest level that relieves hypoxia to prevent complications while ensuring adequate oxygenation. Setting the oxygen flow rate too high (Choice A) can be detrimental for the client with COPD. Removing oxygen while the client is eating (Choice B) can compromise oxygenation, which is essential even during meals. While nasal cannulas are commonly used, the choice of oxygen delivery device depends on the client's needs; there may be situations where a face mask (Choice C) is more appropriate.

5. A client with a history of heart failure is prescribed metoprolol (Lopressor). The nurse should monitor the client for which common side effect of this medication?

• A. Tachycardia
• B. Hypotension
• C. Hypertension
• D. Hyperglycemia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Metoprolol is a beta-blocker commonly used in heart failure to reduce blood pressure. One of the common side effects of metoprolol is hypotension, which can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting. Therefore, monitoring for hypotension is essential to prevent adverse effects and ensure patient safety. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Tachycardia is not a common side effect of metoprolol, as it actually reduces heart rate. Hypertension is also not a common side effect of this medication, as it is intended to lower blood pressure. Hyperglycemia is not a typical side effect of metoprolol.

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