Nursing Elites

1. The client with high blood pressure is being taught by the nurse to avoid adding salt during cooking. What effect does sodium have on blood pressure?

• A. It decreases the viscosity of blood
• B. It leads to increased fluid retention
• C. It causes vasoconstriction of the blood vessels
• D. It enhances the excretion of potassium

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'It causes vasoconstriction of the blood vessels.' Sodium can lead to vasoconstriction, which narrows the blood vessels, increasing resistance to blood flow and subsequently raising blood pressure. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Sodium does not decrease blood viscosity, but it can lead to fluid retention, which increases blood volume and pressure. It does not enhance the excretion of potassium; instead, high sodium intake can lead to potassium excretion by the kidneys.

2. While caring for a client who is being mechanically ventilated, the nurse responds to a high-pressure alarm on the ventilator. Which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?

• A. Endotracheal cuff pressure greater than 25 cm H2O.
• B. Decreased lung compliance during ventilation.
• C. Bilateral crackles with increased secretions.
• D. Restless client who is biting the endotracheal tube.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A restless client biting the endotracheal tube can increase airway resistance, triggering the high-pressure alarm and indicating a need for immediate intervention. This behavior can lead to complications such as dislodgement of the tube or airway obstruction. Endotracheal cuff pressure greater than 25 cm H2O, decreased lung compliance, and bilateral crackles with increased secretions are important assessments but do not directly address the urgent need to intervene when a high-pressure alarm is triggered.

3. A client reports feeling isolated and lonely two weeks after the death of a spouse. What is the most appropriate nursing intervention?

• A. Encourage talking about the spouse
• B. Provide information on grief counseling
• C. Suggest joining a support group
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During the grieving process, individuals may benefit from various interventions to cope with their emotions and feelings of isolation. Encouraging the client to talk about the deceased spouse can provide an outlet for their emotions. Providing information on grief counseling can offer professional support tailored to their needs. Suggesting joining a support group can help the client connect with others who are going through a similar experience, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding. By selecting 'All of the above' as the correct answer, it acknowledges the importance of utilizing multiple strategies to support the client's emotional health and facilitate the grieving process effectively. The other options alone may not address all aspects of the client's needs during this difficult time.

4. The nurse is monitoring a client with an IV infusion in the left antecubital fossa. The site is warm, red, and without swelling. What conclusion should the nurse draw from these findings?

• A. The IV fluids are infusing into the subcutaneous tissues
• B. The infusion pump is functioning properly
• C. The insertion date should be verified and the IV discontinued
• D. The site is inflamed and should be reported

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Warmth and redness at the IV site without swelling indicate a localized reaction, which is common and does not necessarily indicate infiltration of IV fluids into the subcutaneous tissues. The absence of swelling suggests that the IV is correctly placed. Therefore, the nurse should conclude that the infusion pump is functioning properly. Choice A is incorrect as warmth and redness alone do not indicate subcutaneous infiltration. Choice C is incorrect as discontinuing the IV solely based on warmth and redness without swelling is not necessary. Choice D is incorrect as the absence of swelling signifies a localized reaction rather than inflammation requiring immediate reporting.

5. What is the priority nursing action during the immediate postoperative period for a client who just underwent a coronary artery bypass graft?

• A. Monitor for signs of infection
• B. Ensure the client is pain-free
• C. Assess for bleeding and arrhythmias
• D. Maintain a patent airway

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Maintaining a patent airway is the priority nursing action during the immediate postoperative period for a client who just underwent a coronary artery bypass graft. This is crucial to ensure adequate oxygenation, especially in the early recovery phase. Monitoring for signs of infection, ensuring the client is pain-free, and assessing for bleeding and arrhythmias are important aspects of postoperative care but maintaining a clear airway takes precedence in this scenario to prevent hypoxia and respiratory compromise. In the immediate postoperative period, maintaining a patent airway is essential to prevent complications such as airway obstruction, hypoxia, and respiratory distress, which are critical in ensuring the client's safety and recovery.

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