Nursing Elites

1. Why should a palpated pressure be performed before auscultating blood pressure?

• A. To more clearly hear the Korotkoff sounds.
• B. To detect the presence of an auscultatory gap.
• C. To avoid missing a falsely elevated blood pressure.
• D. To more readily identify phase IV of the Korotkoff sounds.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Performing a palpated pressure before auscultating blood pressure helps in detecting the presence of an auscultatory gap. An auscultatory gap is a period during blood pressure measurement when Korotkoff sounds temporarily disappear before reappearing. Inflation of the cuff 20 to 30 mm Hg beyond the point where a palpated pulse disappears helps in identifying this gap. This technique ensures accurate blood pressure measurement by preventing the underestimation of blood pressure values. The other options are incorrect because palpating the pressure is not primarily done to hear Korotkoff sounds more clearly, avoid missing falsely elevated blood pressure, or readily identify a specific phase of Korotkoff sounds.

2. Intermittent fevers are:

• A. fevers which come and go.
• B. fevers which rise and fall but are always considered above the patient's average temperature.
• C. fevers which fluctuate more than three degrees and never return to normal.
• D. None of the above.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Intermittent fevers are characterized by periods of fever followed by periods of normal body temperature. They alternate between being febrile and afebrile. Continuous fevers show minimal fluctuations over a 24-hour period, while remittent fevers fluctuate significantly but do return to normal body temperature. Choice A is correct as it accurately describes intermittent fevers. Choices B and C are incorrect as they do not fully capture the defining characteristic of intermittent fevers, which involve cyclical episodes of fever and normal temperature. Choice D is incorrect as there is a specific definition for intermittent fevers.

3. When a sequence of repeated weights is necessary, the healthcare provider should aim to weigh the patient at the same time of day and with consistent clothing. Using a standardized balance or electronic standing scale is recommended for accurate measurements. The patient should remove shoes and heavy outer clothing. It is not required for the patient to always be weighed in undergarments. What is the most appropriate indicator of the patient's overall well-being?

• A. General health
• B. Genetic makeup
• C. Nutritional status
• D. Activity and exercise patterns

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Weight measurements are essential to assess general health, particularly in monitoring growth patterns. Height and weight recordings are crucial indicators of overall well-being, reflecting the individual's health status. Genetic makeup does not change with weight fluctuations, making it an inappropriate indicator. Nutritional status and activity levels can influence weight but are not as comprehensive as general health in reflecting overall well-being.

4. Which statement best describes evidence-based practice?

• A. Reading and analyzing research reports to determine their implementation in nursing practice
• B. Collecting data to evaluate the efficiency of nursing practice in delivering quality care
• C. Monitoring unit practices to ensure adherence to Joint Commission standards
• D. Using the most effective, current, and applicable information to guide nursing care for the best outcomes

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Evidence-based practice involves utilizing the most effective, current, and relevant information to inform nursing care decisions for optimal client outcomes. While research reports and data collection are important components of evidence-based practice, the essence lies in integrating all available information to determine the best course of action. Monitoring compliance with standards, as described in choices A and C, is essential for quality assurance but does not capture the comprehensive nature of evidence-based practice.

5. What is the anatomic structure located in the middle of the heart that separates the right and left ventricles?

• A. Septum
• B. Sputum
• C. Separator
• D. None of the above

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the septum. The septum is a structure located in the middle of the heart that separates the right and left ventricles. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the separation between the two ventricles to ensure efficient blood flow. The other choices, 'Sputum' and 'Separator,' are incorrect as they do not refer to the anatomic structure in the heart that serves this specific function. 'Sputum' is a term used to describe phlegm or mucus, not an anatomical structure, and 'Separator' is a generic term that does not specifically identify the cardiac structure mentioned in the question.

Similar Questions