Nursing Elites

1. What is the primary purpose of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)?

• A. To provide health insurance coverage for all Americans.
• B. To ensure the confidentiality of health information.
• C. To reduce the cost of healthcare.
• D. To increase access to healthcare services.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary purpose of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is to ensure the confidentiality and security of health information. HIPAA establishes national standards to protect individuals' medical records and other personal health information. By safeguarding the privacy of health data, HIPAA aims to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive patient information, preventing unauthorized access and disclosure. This focus on privacy and security helps build trust between patients and healthcare providers, ensuring that personal health information is handled responsibly and ethically.

2. A healthcare provider is planning to administer medications to a client who is receiving enteral feedings through an NG tube. Which of the following actions should the healthcare provider plan to take?

• A. Dissolve each medication in 5 mL of sterile water.
• B. Administer medications through a secondary infusion.
• C. Mix medications with the enteral feeding.
• D. Flush the NG tube with 30 mL of water before and after administering medications.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Flushing the NG tube with water before and after administering medications is essential to prevent clogging of the tube and ensure proper delivery of medication. This practice helps maintain tube patency and decreases the risk of obstruction, which could compromise the client's treatment and nutrition. By flushing the tube, the healthcare provider ensures that the medication is completely delivered and that there are no residual drug particles left in the tube, which could lead to blockages or inconsistent dosing. Therefore, flushing the NG tube is a crucial step in the safe administration of medications to clients receiving enteral feedings. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Dissolving medications in sterile water (Choice A) may not be suitable for all drugs, as some medications may require specific diluents. Administering medications through a secondary infusion (Choice B) is not the standard practice for enteral medication administration. Mixing medications with the enteral feeding (Choice C) can cause interactions between medications and the feeding formula, affecting their absorption and effectiveness.

3. A client is postoperative following abdominal surgery. Which of the following actions should be taken to prevent respiratory complications?

• A. Instruct the client to exhale into an incentive spirometer
• B. Reposition the client every 8 hours
• C. Assist the client with early ambulation
• D. Maintain the client on bed rest for the first 48 hours

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Assisting the client with early ambulation is crucial in preventing respiratory complications after abdominal surgery. Early ambulation helps to prevent conditions like atelectasis and pneumonia by promoting lung expansion and preventing pooling of respiratory secretions. It also aids in improving circulation, reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis, and enhancing overall recovery. Instructing the client to exhale into an incentive spirometer (Choice A) is beneficial for lung expansion but is more focused on respiratory therapy rather than preventing complications. Repositioning the client every 8 hours (Choice B) is important for preventing pressure ulcers but is not directly related to preventing respiratory complications. Maintaining the client on bed rest for the first 48 hours (Choice D) can lead to complications such as atelectasis, pneumonia, and deep vein thrombosis due to decreased lung expansion and mobility.

4. A client with dysphagia and at risk for aspiration needs care planning. Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan?

• A. Encourage the client to drink thickened liquids.
• B. Instruct the client to swallow with chin tucked.
• C. Provide the client with a cup with a lid.
• D. Place the client in Fowler's position for meals.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Placing the client in Fowler's position is crucial in preventing aspiration as it helps maintain an open airway and reduces the risk of food or liquid entering the lungs during swallowing. This position promotes safer swallowing and minimizes the chances of aspiration pneumonia. Choices A, B, and C are less effective interventions for preventing aspiration. Encouraging the client to drink thickened liquids may help, but the position is more critical. Instructing the client to swallow with chin tucked is beneficial for some individuals but not as effective as positioning. Providing a cup with a lid does not directly address the risk of aspiration associated with dysphagia.

5. A client has a new diagnosis of hypertension and is being taught about dietary management. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will increase my intake of dairy products.
• B. I will eat more fresh fruits and vegetables.
• C. I will limit my intake of whole grains.
• D. I will consume more red meat.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because increasing the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables can help manage blood pressure. These foods are rich in nutrients like potassium, fiber, and antioxidants, which are beneficial for individuals with hypertension. Dairy products are usually high in saturated fats, which can be detrimental to blood pressure control. Whole grains are generally recommended for their health benefits, including maintaining a healthy weight and heart health. Red meat is often high in saturated fats and can contribute to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular risks.

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