Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is preparing an older adult for discharge following cataract extraction. What is the most important instruction?

• A. Avoid straining, bending, or lifting heavy objects.
• B. Limit exposure to sunlight for the first 2 weeks.
• C. Use direct lighting when reading for 6 weeks.
• D. Irrigate the conjunctiva with saline before applying ointment.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most important instruction for a patient following cataract extraction is to avoid straining, bending, or lifting heavy objects. These activities can increase intraocular pressure and potentially lead to complications such as bleeding or dislocation of the intraocular lens. Choices B, C, and D are not as critical in the immediate post-operative period. Limiting sunlight exposure and using direct lighting when reading are important but not as crucial as avoiding activities that can increase intraocular pressure. Irrigating the conjunctiva with saline before applying ointment is not a standard post-cataract surgery instruction.

2. A client with cirrhosis is receiving lactulose. What is the most important assessment for the nurse to monitor?

• A. Monitor the client's ammonia levels.
• B. Monitor the client's blood glucose level.
• C. Monitor the client's potassium levels.
• D. Monitor the client's level of consciousness.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor the client's level of consciousness. Lactulose is used to reduce ammonia levels in hepatic encephalopathy. Monitoring the level of consciousness helps assess the effectiveness of lactulose therapy in improving the client's condition. Monitoring ammonia levels (choice A) is important, but assessing the client's response to therapy through their level of consciousness is more crucial. Blood glucose levels (choice B) and potassium levels (choice C) are not directly related to lactulose therapy for cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy.

3. An older client with chronic emphysema is admitted to the emergency room with acute weakness, palpitations, and vomiting. Which information is most important for the nurse to obtain during the initial interview?

• A. Recent compliance with prescribed medications.
• B. Sleep patterns during the previous few weeks.
• C. History of smoking over the past 6 months.
• D. Activity level prior to the onset of symptoms.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. In this scenario, the most critical information for the nurse to obtain during the initial interview is the recent compliance with prescribed medications. This is crucial to understand the client's baseline condition and management of chronic emphysema. Monitoring medication adherence can provide insights into potential exacerbating factors that may have led to the current acute symptoms. Choices B, C, and D are not as crucial in this situation. Sleep patterns, smoking history, and activity levels are important aspects of the client's overall health but do not take precedence over medication compliance when addressing acute symptoms in a client with chronic emphysema.

4. A client with pneumonia is receiving antibiotics and oxygen therapy. What assessment finding requires immediate intervention?

• A. Productive cough with yellow sputum.
• B. Oxygen saturation of 88%.
• C. Respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute.
• D. Heart rate of 90 beats per minute.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An oxygen saturation of 88% indicates hypoxemia, which is a critical condition requiring immediate intervention to improve oxygenation. Hypoxemia can lead to tissue hypoxia and further complications. A productive cough with yellow sputum is common in pneumonia but may not require immediate intervention unless it worsens or is associated with other concerning symptoms. A respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute is within the normal range, indicating adequate ventilation. A heart rate of 90 beats per minute is also within a normal range and may not require immediate intervention unless it is accompanied by other abnormal findings.

5. The nurse is teaching a group of clients about managing diabetes. Which of the following should be emphasized as a goal for all diabetics?

• A. Frequent exercise and weight control
• B. Prevent eye damage
• C. Keep insulin refrigerated at all times
• D. Prevent the development of complications

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Frequent exercise and weight control. These should be emphasized as a goal for all diabetics because they help prevent complications and manage blood sugar levels. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial in managing diabetes as they can improve insulin sensitivity, regulate blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications. Choice B, preventing eye damage, is important but is more specific to diabetic retinopathy and not a general goal for all diabetics. Choice C, keeping insulin refrigerated, is essential for insulin storage but not a primary goal for all diabetics. Choice D, preventing the development of complications, is too broad and does not provide a specific actionable goal for all diabetics.

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