Nursing Elites

1. What is the proper technique for obtaining a blood specimen from a central venous line?

• A. Use sterile gloves and discard the first 10 mL of blood
• B. Flush the line with heparin and then draw the specimen
• C. Draw the specimen and then administer heparin
• D. Use non-sterile gloves to reduce contamination risk

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct technique for obtaining a blood specimen from a central venous line is to use sterile gloves and discard the first 10 mL of blood. This practice helps ensure that the blood sample collected is not contaminated. Choice B is incorrect because flushing the line with heparin before drawing the specimen can contaminate the sample. Choice C is incorrect as administering heparin before drawing the specimen can affect the accuracy of the blood sample. Choice D is incorrect as using non-sterile gloves increases the risk of contamination, which is not recommended when obtaining a blood specimen from a central venous line.

2. What should a healthcare provider prioritize for a client diagnosed with bipolar disorder?

• A. Monitor for hyperactivity
• B. Monitor for signs of depression
• C. Monitor for changes in self-esteem
• D. Monitor for changes in energy levels

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When caring for a client diagnosed with bipolar disorder, the priority is to monitor for signs of depression. Individuals with bipolar disorder are at risk of severe depressive episodes, making it crucial to watch for signs of depression. While changes in energy levels and self-esteem are common in bipolar disorder, they are not the primary focus. Hyperactivity is a characteristic of the manic phase of bipolar disorder, so monitoring for depression is the priority in this case.

3. A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client who has a new prescription for haloperidol. Which of the following adverse effects should the nurse instruct the client to report to the provider?

• A. Weight gain.
• B. Dry mouth.
• C. Sedation.
• D. Shuffling gait.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Shuffling gait. A shuffling gait can indicate extrapyramidal symptoms, a potentially serious side effect of haloperidol. Extrapyramidal symptoms include movement disorders such as dystonia, akathisia, parkinsonism, and tardive dyskinesia. Reporting this symptom promptly is crucial to prevent further complications. Choices A, B, and C are common side effects of haloperidol but are not as urgent or indicative of serious complications compared to a shuffling gait.

4. What is the priority nursing action for a client with dehydration?

• A. Administer oral fluids
• B. Monitor electrolyte levels
• C. Administer antiemetics as needed
• D. Encourage bed rest

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority nursing action for a client with dehydration is to monitor electrolyte levels. Dehydration can cause imbalances in electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, affecting essential bodily functions. Monitoring electrolyte levels is crucial to promptly identify and correct any imbalances. While administering oral fluids (Choice A) is vital in treating dehydration, monitoring electrolyte levels takes precedence as it directly addresses the underlying imbalance. Administering antiemetics (Choice C) may be necessary for nausea and vomiting but is not the priority over electrolyte monitoring. Encouraging bed rest (Choice D) can conserve energy but is not as critical as monitoring electrolyte levels to prevent complications related to electrolyte imbalances.

5. When providing family education for those who have a relative with Alzheimer's disease about minimizing stress, which of the following suggestions is most relevant?

• A. Allow the client to rest four to five times during the day
• B. Assess the cognitive functioning of the client regularly
• C. Provide reality orientation even if the memory loss is severe
• D. Maintain consistency in environment, routine, and caregivers

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most relevant suggestion for minimizing stress in individuals with Alzheimer's disease is to maintain consistency in the environment, routine, and caregivers. This approach helps create a sense of familiarity and security for the individual, reducing stress and anxiety. Choice A is incorrect as it suggests allowing the client to go to bed multiple times during the day, which may disrupt their routine and lead to confusion. Choice B is incorrect as continuously testing cognitive functioning can be overwhelming and stressful for the individual. Choice C is also incorrect as providing reality orientation in cases of severe memory loss can cause frustration and confusion, ultimately increasing stress levels.

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