Nursing Elites

1. When printing out an EKG, a nurse notices that the QRS complexes are extremely small. What should be the next step?

• A. Alert the physician immediately as this is a sign of impending cardiac arrest.
• B. Check to see that all leads are attached and rerun the EKG.
• C. Increase the sensitivity control to 20 mm deflection.
• D. Decrease the run speed to 50.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Increasing the sensitivity control to 20 mm deflection will double the sensitivity, allowing for better observation of the small QRS complexes. This step is crucial in obtaining a clearer EKG reading. Choice A is incorrect because small QRS complexes do not necessarily indicate impending cardiac arrest; it's more likely a technical issue. Choice B is not the first step to take when small QRS complexes are observed; it's important to adjust the settings first. Choice D is incorrect because decreasing the run speed to 50 is not the appropriate action for this situation; adjusting the sensitivity control is more relevant to improve the visualization of the complexes.

2. A client is preparing to irrigate a colostomy. Which of the following situations is a contraindication for this type of irrigation?

• A. The client has an incontinent ostomy
• B. The client has an irregular bowel routine
• C. The client has diverticulitis
• D. The colostomy bag contains fecal material

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a client with a colostomy is preparing for irrigation, it is essential to consider contraindications that could pose risks or worsen the client's condition. Diverticulitis is a contraindication for colostomy irrigation because the inflamed diverticula could be further irritated by the flushing action during irrigation, potentially leading to complications. An incontinent ostomy, irregular bowel routine, or presence of fecal material in the colostomy bag are not specific contraindications for irrigation and can be managed through appropriate techniques and interventions.

3. The nurse is preparing to examine a 6-year-old child. Which action is most appropriate?

• A. The child is asked to undress from the waist up.
• B. The head is examined before the thorax, abdomen, and genitalia.
• C. The nurse should keep in mind that a child at this age will have a sense of modesty.
• D. Talking about the equipment being used is avoided to prevent increasing the child's anxiety.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When examining a 6-year-old child, it is important to consider their sense of modesty. The child should undress themselves, leaving underpants on and using a gown or drape to maintain privacy. Additionally, a school-age child like a 6-year-old is curious about how equipment works, so it is beneficial to explain the purpose and function of the tools being used. The examination sequence should typically progress from the child's head to the toes to ensure a thorough assessment. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the appropriate approach to examining a 6-year-old child.

4. In which of the following ways can a healthcare provider promote the sense of taste for an older adult?

• A. Mixing foods together on the dinner tray
• B. Avoiding cologne, air fresheners, or room deodorizers
• C. Encouraging the client to chew food thoroughly
• D. Discouraging the use of salt or seasonings with prepared food

Correct answer: C

Rationale: As individuals age, their sense of taste may diminish, impacting the enjoyment of eating. One effective way for a healthcare provider to promote the sense of taste for an older adult is by encouraging them to chew food thoroughly. Thorough chewing increases the contact of food with the taste buds, enhancing the chances of experiencing the flavors. Mixing foods together on the dinner tray may not necessarily enhance taste perception. Avoiding strong scents like cologne, air fresheners, or room deodorizers is more related to olfactory senses rather than taste. Discouraging the use of salt or seasonings can further diminish the taste experience for older adults who may already have reduced taste sensitivity.

5. During auscultation of a patient's heart sounds, the nurse hears an unfamiliar sound. Which action would the nurse take?

• A. Ask the patient how he or she is feeling.
• B. Document the findings in the patient's record.
• C. Wait 10 minutes and auscultate the sound again.
• D. Ask another nurse to double-check the finding.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When encountering an unfamiliar sound during auscultation, it is crucial for the nurse to seek confirmation from another healthcare professional. Asking the patient about their feelings may not provide insight into the unfamiliar sound. Simply documenting the findings without verification may lead to errors in interpretation. Waiting and auscultating again after 10 minutes might delay necessary intervention. Consulting another nurse for a second opinion ensures accurate identification of the unfamiliar sound and appropriate follow-up actions.

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