Nursing Elites

1. What is the appropriate action for a healthcare provider to take when a patient has a high fever and is disoriented?

• A. Administer acetaminophen
• B. Administer antibiotics
• C. Administer fluids
• D. Cool the patient with cold compresses

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Administering fluids is the appropriate action for a healthcare provider to take when a patient has a high fever and is disoriented. Dehydration can worsen confusion and other symptoms in such a situation. Administering acetaminophen or cooling the patient with cold compresses may help reduce the fever but does not address the underlying issue. Administering antibiotics is not indicated for a high fever and disorientation without knowing the cause.

2. A client with heart failure is prescribed furosemide. What finding should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Sodium 140 mEq/L
• B. Heart rate of 82/min
• C. Potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L
• D. Oxygen saturation 95%

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. A potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L is low and should be reported to the provider. Furosemide can cause potassium depletion, leading to hypokalemia. Low potassium levels can result in cardiac dysrhythmias, which is a serious concern in clients with heart failure. Choices A, B, and D are within normal ranges and do not require immediate reporting. Sodium level of 140 mEq/L, heart rate of 82/min, and oxygen saturation of 95% are all acceptable findings.

3. A client has a new prescription for nitroglycerin sublingual tablets. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take a tablet every 5 minutes for pain relief, up to three doses.
• B. Take this medication with a glass of water.
• C. Chew the tablet for faster absorption.
• D. Store the tablets in a refrigerator.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Take a tablet every 5 minutes for pain relief, up to three doses.' Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets are used to relieve chest pain or to prevent chest pain before activities known to cause angina. The tablets should be taken every 5 minutes for pain relief, up to three doses, as prescribed. Choice B is incorrect because nitroglycerin sublingual tablets should be placed under the tongue until they dissolve, not taken with water. Choice C is incorrect because nitroglycerin sublingual tablets should not be chewed but placed under the tongue for absorption. Choice D is incorrect because nitroglycerin tablets should be stored in their original container at room temperature away from light and moisture.

4. A nurse is reviewing the medical history of a client who has angina. Which of the following findings in the client's medical history should the nurse identify as a risk factor for angina?

• A. Hyperlipidemia.
• B. COPD.
• C. Seizure disorder.
• D. Hyponatremia.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hyperlipidemia. Hyperlipidemia, which is an elevated level of lipids (fats) in the blood, is a well-established risk factor for angina. High levels of lipids can lead to atherosclerosis, a condition where fatty deposits build up in the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart muscle and increasing the risk of angina. Choice B, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), is not directly linked to an increased risk of angina. COPD primarily affects the lungs and is not a known risk factor for angina. Choice C, Seizure disorder, and Choice D, Hyponatremia (low sodium levels), are also not typically associated with an increased risk of angina. While medical conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and smoking are other common risk factors for angina, hyperlipidemia is specifically known for its impact on blood vessels, making it a key risk factor to identify in a client's medical history.

5. A client is 2 hours postoperative following a total knee arthroplasty. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Heart rate 88/min
• B. Capillary refill of 2 seconds
• C. Pain level of 8 on a scale of 0 to 10
• D. Temperature of 37.8°C (100°F)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A pain level of 8 is high and may indicate inadequate pain control or complications following surgery. Monitoring and managing pain is crucial postoperatively to ensure patient comfort and prevent complications. A heart rate of 88/min, capillary refill of 2 seconds, and a temperature of 37.8°C (100°F) are within normal ranges and do not typically require immediate reporting unless in the context of other concerning signs or symptoms.

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