Nursing Elites

1. What are the signs of hypovolemic shock and what is the nurse's role in management?

• A. Rapid pulse, low blood pressure; administer IV fluids
• B. Cold extremities, rapid breathing; administer oxygen
• C. Decreased urine output, sweating; administer diuretics
• D. Weak pulse, clammy skin; administer vasopressors

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct signs of hypovolemic shock are a rapid pulse and low blood pressure. Administering IV fluids helps to restore circulating volume, which is essential in managing hypovolemic shock. Choice B is incorrect because cold extremities and rapid breathing are not typical signs of hypovolemic shock. Choice C is incorrect as administering diuretics would further decrease circulating volume, worsening the condition. Choice D is incorrect as administering vasopressors may further compromise perfusion in hypovolemic shock.

2. A nurse is caring for a client who has a chest tube following a thoracotomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Drainage of 75 mL in the first hour after surgery.
• B. Constant bubbling in the water seal chamber.
• C. Tidaling in the water seal chamber.
• D. Client report of pain at the chest tube insertion site.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Constant bubbling in the water seal chamber indicates an air leak, which should be reported to the provider. This finding suggests that the chest tube system is not functioning properly, leading to potential complications such as pneumothorax. Drainage of 75 mL in the first hour after surgery is within the expected range for a chest tube. Tidaling in the water seal chamber is a normal fluctuation and indicates proper functioning of the system. Client report of pain at the chest tube insertion site is expected after surgery and can be managed with appropriate pain management measures.

3. A client who had a vaginal delivery 4 hours ago has a fourth-degree perineal laceration. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend?

• A. Encourage ambulation
• B. Apply ice packs
• C. Restrict the client's fluid intake
• D. Administer stool softeners

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: Applying ice packs is the most appropriate intervention for a client with a fourth-degree perineal laceration. Ice packs help reduce swelling and promote comfort, aiding in the healing process. Choice A, encouraging ambulation, may not be suitable immediately after a fourth-degree laceration due to the need for rest and proper wound care. Choice C, restricting fluid intake, is not indicated and can lead to dehydration, which is not beneficial for wound healing. Choice D, administering stool softeners, may be necessary to prevent constipation and straining, but it is not the priority intervention at this time.

4. A client with asthma and a new prescription for an ipratropium inhaler is being taught by a nurse. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will rinse my mouth after each use
• B. I should wait 5 minutes before taking a second puff
• C. I should take this medication when I wake up
• D. I should wait 1 minute before taking a second puff

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because waiting 1 minute between puffs ensures proper absorption of the medication. Choice A is incorrect as rinsing the mouth is not a specific instruction related to using the inhaler. Choice B is incorrect as waiting 5 minutes between puffs is longer than necessary. Choice C is incorrect as the timing of medication administration is not specified in the question.

5. A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a thyroidectomy and reports tingling and numbness in the hands. The nurse should expect to administer which of the following medications?

• A. Sodium bicarbonate.
• B. Calcium gluconate.
• C. Potassium chloride.
• D. Magnesium sulfate.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Tingling and numbness in the hands can indicate hypocalcemia, a common complication following a thyroidectomy. Hypocalcemia requires immediate intervention to prevent severe complications like tetany and seizures. Calcium gluconate is the drug of choice for rapidly raising serum calcium levels in hypocalcemic patients. Sodium bicarbonate is not indicated for treating hypocalcemia or related symptoms. Potassium chloride is used to correct potassium imbalances, not calcium. Magnesium sulfate is not the appropriate treatment for hypocalcemia; it is commonly used for conditions like preeclampsia or eclampsia.

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