Nursing Elites

1. What is a primary symptom of left-sided heart failure?

• A. Shortness of breath
• B. Edema
• C. Rapid heartbeat
• D. Confusion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Shortness of breath is a primary symptom of left-sided heart failure. In this condition, the heart's inability to pump effectively leads to fluid backing up into the lungs, causing difficulty breathing. Edema (swelling), rapid heartbeat, and confusion are more commonly associated with other conditions or right-sided heart failure. Edema is often seen in right-sided heart failure due to fluid accumulation in the body, rapid heartbeat can be a general sign of heart issues, and confusion is more related to decreased brain perfusion in severe heart failure cases.

2. A nurse is reinforcing discharge teaching about car seat safety with the guardian of a newborn. Which of the following statements by the guardian indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will position the car seat in the front seat
• B. I will secure the car seat in the car by using the seatbelt
• C. I will use a rear-facing car seat
• D. I will install the car seat facing forward

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Using a rear-facing car seat is the safest position for a newborn. Newborns should always be placed in a rear-facing car seat in the back seat of the vehicle to provide optimal safety in case of a crash. Choice A is incorrect because placing the car seat in the front seat is not safe due to the presence of airbags. Choice B is incorrect as securing the car seat using the seatbelt is not specific to the correct positioning of the car seat. Choice D is incorrect because installing the car seat facing forward is not recommended for newborns as it does not provide the same level of protection as a rear-facing position.

3. A nurse is caring for a client who has an altered mental status and has become aggressive. Which of the following prescriptions should the nurse clarify with the provider prior to administration?

• A. Haloperidol
• B. Zolpidem
• C. Morphine
• D. Lorazepam

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Zolpidem. Zolpidem is a sedative-hypnotic medication that can worsen altered mental status, especially in clients who are already aggressive. Therefore, the nurse should clarify this prescription with the provider before administration to ensure it is safe for the client. Choice A, Haloperidol, is an antipsychotic commonly used to manage aggression in clients with altered mental status, making it an appropriate choice in this scenario. Choice C, Morphine, is an opioid analgesic and would not directly impact the client's altered mental status or aggression. Choice D, Lorazepam, is a benzodiazepine used to manage anxiety and agitation, which could be beneficial in this situation but does not have the same potential to exacerbate altered mental status as Zolpidem.

4. A client is scheduled for a lumbar puncture. The nurse should assist the client into which of the following positions?

• A. Supine with head elevated
• B. Lateral recumbent
• C. Prone with arms at sides
• D. Sitting with back rounded

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct position for a lumbar puncture is the lateral recumbent position. This position allows the spine to curve naturally, widening the spaces between the vertebrae, making it easier and safer to perform the procedure. Supine with head elevated (Choice A) would not provide the proper positioning for a lumbar puncture as it does not allow for proper access to the lumbar area. Prone with arms at sides (Choice C) would not be suitable as it would not facilitate the procedure. Sitting with back rounded (Choice D) is also incorrect as it does not allow for the proper alignment of the spine needed for a lumbar puncture.

5. A client has undergone a myelogram, and a nurse is providing post-procedure care. Which action should be included in the nursing care plan?

• A. Encourage ambulation after the procedure
• B. Maintain the prone position for 12 hours
• C. Evaluate the client's distal pulses on the affected side
• D. Encourage oral fluid intake

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action to include in the nursing care plan for a client post-myelogram is to evaluate the client's distal pulses on the affected side. This is crucial to assess circulation and detect any potential complications such as impaired blood flow or vascular issues. Encouraging ambulation after the procedure (Choice A) is not typically recommended immediately post-myelogram, as the client may need to rest. Maintaining the prone position for 12 hours (Choice B) is an outdated practice and is no longer part of standard care post-myelogram. Encouraging oral fluid intake (Choice D) is generally beneficial for hydration but is not a specific priority related to post-myelogram care.

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