Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is providing post-operative care to the craniotomy client. Diabetes insipidus is suspected when the client's urine output suddenly increases significantly. Which action takes highest priority?

• A. Continue to monitor urine output
• B. Check a pulse
• C. Check a blood pressure
• D. Check level of consciousness (LOC)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to check a blood pressure. Diabetes insipidus can lead to dehydration and potential hypovolemic shock due to excessive urine output. Monitoring blood pressure is crucial to assess the client's circulatory status and detect signs of shock early. Checking the blood pressure will provide essential information on perfusion, which is vital in this situation. Continuing to monitor urine output, checking a pulse, or assessing the level of consciousness are important but not as high a priority as evaluating the blood pressure in a potentially critical situation like suspected diabetes insipidus.

2. In conducting a community health fair for a group of middle-aged citizens, which statement should the nurse emphasize in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease?

• A. Participate in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity 3 to 5 days per week.
• B. Engage in an aerobic exercise class every day.
• C. Limit your alcohol intake to a moderate level.
• D. The best way to lose weight is to follow a balanced diet.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Engaging in an aerobic exercise class every day is crucial in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease. Aerobic exercises help keep the heart in shape, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels. It is recommended to participate in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, which can be achieved by engaging in aerobic exercise daily. Choice A has been corrected to emphasize the frequency required to significantly reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Choice C has been modified to suggest moderation in alcohol intake, as excessive alcohol consumption is harmful. Choice D is also incorrect as a balanced diet, not specifically high-protein, high-fat, is recommended to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and maintain a healthy weight.

3. A healthcare provider is screening patients for various vaccines. Which of the following vaccines is contraindicated during pregnancy?

• A. Diphtheria
• B. Hepatitis B
• C. Mumps
• D. Tetanus

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is Mumps. The Mumps vaccine, along with the Rubella vaccine, is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the theoretical risk of affecting the developing fetus. Diphtheria, Hepatitis B, and Tetanus vaccines are considered safe during pregnancy and are often recommended to protect both the pregnant individual and the developing fetus. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect.

4. Laboratory tests reveal the following electrolyte values for Mr. Smith: Na 135 mEq/L, Ca 8.5 mg/dL, Cl 102 mEq/L, and K 2.0 mEq/L. Which of the following values should the nurse report to the physician because of its potential risk to the client?

• A. Ca
• B. K
• C. Na
• D. Cl

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'K.' Normal serum potassium levels range between 3.5 and 5.5 mEq/L. Mr. Smith's potassium level of 2.0 mEq/L is significantly below the normal range, indicating hypokalemia, which can lead to serious risks such as cardiac arrhythmias. The levels of sodium (Na), calcium (Ca), and chloride (Cl) are within normal ranges, so they do not pose an immediate risk to the client's health. Therefore, the nurse should report the low potassium level to the physician for prompt intervention.

5. A nurse has been ordered to set up Buck's traction on a patient's lower extremity due to a femur fracture. Which of the following applies to Buck's traction?

• A. A weight greater than 10 lbs. should be used.
• B. The line of pull is upward at an angle.
• C. The line of pull is straight
• D. A weight greater than 20 lbs. should be used.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is that the line of pull is straight for Buck's traction. This type of traction is applied to maintain alignment and immobilization of fractures, typically involving the lower extremities. A straight line of pull helps to provide the necessary countertraction to keep the fractured bone in proper alignment. Choices A and D are incorrect because Buck's traction commonly uses a weight range between 5-10 lbs, and using a weight greater than 10 or 20 lbs would not be appropriate or safe. Choice B is incorrect as well since the line of pull for Buck's traction is straight, not upward at an angle.

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