Nursing Elites

1. What are the early signs of sepsis in a patient?

• A. Increased heart rate and fever
• B. Low blood pressure and confusion
• C. Elevated blood sugar and sweating
• D. Increased urine output and abdominal pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increased heart rate and fever. These are early signs of sepsis and indicate a systemic infection. It is crucial to identify these signs promptly to initiate appropriate treatment. Choice B is incorrect because low blood pressure and confusion are more indicative of severe sepsis or septic shock rather than early signs. Choice C is incorrect as elevated blood sugar and sweating are not typical early signs of sepsis. Choice D is also incorrect as increased urine output and abdominal pain are not early signs of sepsis.

2. A client undergoing surgery is being taught about the use of a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump by a nurse. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will ask my spouse to push the button when I am sleeping
• B. I will use the PCA pump to keep me comfortable during the night
• C. I will ask the nurse to increase the dosage if I still feel pain
• D. I will press the button for medication as soon as I feel pain

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because clients should press the button on the PCA pump when they feel pain to receive controlled doses of medication. Option A is incorrect as the client should be the one to self-administer the medication through the PCA pump. Option B is incorrect as the primary purpose of the PCA pump is to manage pain, not to keep the client comfortable. Option C is incorrect because the client should not adjust the dosage themselves; instead, they should communicate any pain concerns to the healthcare provider.

3. A nurse is maintaining droplet precautions for a client who has meningitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Wear a gown within 3 feet of the client
• B. Maintain a distance of 6 feet from the client
• C. Wear a surgical mask within 3 feet of the client
• D. Remove gloves before leaving the room

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when maintaining droplet precautions for a client with meningitis is to wear a surgical mask within 3 feet of the client. This is essential to prevent the transmission of meningitis via respiratory droplets. Choice A is incorrect because wearing a gown is not specifically required for droplet precautions. Choice B suggests maintaining a distance of 6 feet, which is more applicable to airborne precautions, not droplet precautions. Choice D is incorrect as gloves should be removed and disposed of properly, but it is not related to droplet precautions specifically.

4. A healthcare provider is assessing a client who has received a preoperative dose of morphine. Which of the following findings is the priority to report to the provider?

• A. Client reports nausea.
• B. Urinary output of 20 mL/hr.
• C. Oxygen saturation 90%.
• D. Respiratory rate 14/min.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: An oxygen saturation of 90% is below the expected reference range and could indicate respiratory depression, a serious side effect of morphine. This finding requires immediate attention as it may lead to hypoxia. Nausea (choice A) is a common side effect of morphine but does not pose an immediate threat. A urinary output of 20 mL/hr (choice B) may indicate decreased renal perfusion but is not as critical as respiratory compromise. A respiratory rate of 14/min (choice D) is within the normal range and does not suggest immediate danger.

5. When teaching a client with left-leg weakness how to use a cane, which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Use the cane on the weak side of the body
• B. Advance the cane and the strong leg simultaneously
• C. Maintain two points of support on the floor
• D. Advance the cane 30 to 45 cm (12-18 in) with each step

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for the client with left-leg weakness using a cane is to maintain two points of support on the floor. This ensures stability and balance while walking. Choice A is incorrect because the cane should be used on the strong side of the body to provide additional support. Choice B is incorrect as the cane and the weak leg should move together for support. Choice D is incorrect as advancing the cane too far with each step may compromise balance and stability.

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