Nursing Elites

1. When assessing a male client, the nurse finds that he is fatigued and is experiencing muscle weakness, leg cramps, and cardiac dysrhythmias. Based on these findings, the nurse plans to check the client's laboratory values to validate the existence of which condition?

• A. Hyperphosphatemia
• B. Hypocalcemia
• C. Hypermagnesemia
• D. Hypokalemia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The symptoms of muscle weakness, leg cramps, and cardiac dysrhythmias are indicative of hypokalemia, a condition characterized by low potassium levels. Checking the client's laboratory values for potassium will help confirm this diagnosis. Hyperphosphatemia (Choice A) is an elevated phosphate level in the blood, which is not consistent with the symptoms described. Hypocalcemia (Choice B) is a low calcium level and typically presents with different symptoms than those mentioned in the scenario. Hypermagnesemia (Choice C) is an excess of magnesium in the blood and does not align with the symptoms of muscle weakness, leg cramps, and cardiac dysrhythmias observed in the client.

2. While caring for a client who, while sitting in a chair, starts to experience a seizure, what action should the nurse take?

• A. Lower the client to the floor and place a pad under the client's head.
• B. Hold the client's head still to prevent injury.
• C. Restrain the client to prevent movement.
• D. Place the client in a supine position.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During a seizure, the priority is to lower the client to the floor to prevent injury and ensure their safety. Placing a pad under the client's head helps protect the head from injury. Choice B, holding the client's head still, is incorrect as it can lead to harm; it's essential to allow movement during a seizure to prevent neck injury. Choice C, restraining the client, is dangerous and can cause harm by restricting movement. Choice D, placing the client in a supine position, is also not recommended during a seizure as it does not provide adequate protection for the client.

3. A hospitalized male client is receiving nasogastric tube feedings via a small-bore tube and a continuous pump infusion. He reports that he had a bad bout of severe coughing a few minutes ago but feels fine now. What action is best for the LPN/LVN to take?

• A. Record the coughing incident. No further action is required at this time.
• B. Stop the feeding, explain to the family why it is being stopped, and notify the healthcare provider.
• C. After clearing the tube with 30 ml of air, check the pH of fluid withdrawn from the tube.
• D. Inject 30 ml of air into the tube while auscultating the epigastrium for gurgling.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After a client experiences severe coughing following nasogastric tube feedings, it is crucial to verify proper tube placement. Checking the pH of fluid withdrawn from the tube helps confirm the tube's correct positioning. Option A is incorrect because further action is necessary to ensure the client's safety. Option B is inappropriate as it suggests stopping the feeding without assessing the tube's placement. Option D is incorrect as injecting air into the tube may lead to further complications if the tube is not positioned correctly.

4. The UAPs working on a chronic neuro unit ask the LPN/LVN to help them determine the safest way to transfer an elderly client with left-sided weakness from the bed to the chair. What method describes the correct transfer procedure for this client?

• A. Place the chair at a right angle to the bed on the client's left side before moving.
• B. Assist the client to a standing position, then place the right hand on the armrest.
• C. Have the client place the left foot next to the chair and pivot to the left before sitting.
• D. Move the chair parallel to the right side of the bed, and stand the client on the right foot.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct method for transferring an elderly client with left-sided weakness from the bed to the chair involves moving the chair parallel to the right side of the bed and standing the client on the right foot. This technique provides a stable and safe transfer by utilizing the stronger side of the client to support the transfer. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because placing the chair at a right angle to the bed on the client's left side, assisting the client to a standing position and placing the right hand on the armrest, and having the client pivot to the left before sitting do not address the client's left-sided weakness and may increase the risk of falls or injuries.

5. The patient has been diagnosed with a spinal cord injury and needs to be repositioned using the logrolling technique. Which technique will the healthcare team use for logrolling?

• A. Involve at least three to four people.
• B. Instruct the patient not to reach for the opposite side rail when turning.
• C. Move the bottom part of the patient’s torso first and then the top part.
• D. Use pillows for support before turning.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct technique for logrolling involves at least three to four people to ensure the safety and proper alignment of the patient's spine. Logrolling requires coordinated effort from multiple individuals to prevent twisting or bending of the spine, hence option A is correct. Option B is incorrect as patients with spinal cord injuries should not be instructed to reach for the opposite side rail due to the risk of causing harm. Option C is incorrect as moving the bottom part of the patient's torso first could lead to spinal misalignment. Option D is incorrect as pillows should be used for support and comfort after the patient has been successfully turned, not before.

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