Nursing Elites

1. Which laboratory test would be the least effective in diagnosing a myocardial infarction?

• A. AST
• B. Troponin
• C. CK-MB
• D. Myoglobin

Correct answer: A

Rationale: AST, choice A, would be the least effective in diagnosing a myocardial infarction as it is not specific for this condition. Troponin, CK-MB, and myoglobin (choices B, C, and D) are more specific markers for myocardial infarction. Troponin is considered the gold standard due to its cardiac specificity. CK-MB is also specific to the heart, and its isoenzyme levels elevate post-heart damage. Myoglobin, although elevated in myocardial infarction, is not as specific as troponin and CK-MB and can also increase in conditions like burns and muscle trauma. Therefore, AST is the least effective choice for diagnosing a myocardial infarction.

2. What are appropriate nursing strategies to assist a client in maintaining a sense of self?

• A. Addressing the client by their first name when interacting with them
• B. Treating the client with dignity
• C. Explaining procedures to the client regardless of their attentiveness
• D. Encouraging the use of personal items to foster a sense of identity

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Maintaining a sense of self is crucial for clients in healthcare settings. Treating the client with dignity is a fundamental nursing principle that helps preserve the client's self-worth and identity. Addressing the client by their first name when interacting with them is a way to show respect, but it alone may not significantly contribute to maintaining their sense of self. Explaining procedures to the client, regardless of their attentiveness, is essential for informed consent and autonomy, empowering them in their care. Encouraging the use of personal items can foster a sense of identity as these items often hold personal significance and emotional value for the client, thus supporting their sense of self; therefore, discouraging their use would be counterproductive in maintaining a client's sense of self.

3. Six hours after birth, the infant is found to have an area of swelling over the right parietal area that does not cross the suture line. The nurse should chart this finding as:

• A. A cephalohematoma
• B. Molding
• C. Subdural hematoma
• D. Caput succedaneum

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, a cephalohematoma. A cephalohematoma is an area of bleeding outside the cranium but beneath the periosteum, typically not crossing the suture line. Answer B, molding, is the overlapping of the bones of the cranium and does not involve bleeding, making it an incorrect choice. Answer C, a subdural hematoma, involves intracranial bleeding and is typically diagnosed through imaging studies like a CAT scan or x-ray. Answer D, caput succedaneum, is characterized by edema that crosses the suture line, unlike the described swelling in this case.

4. After talking to the nurse, the charge nurse should:

• A. Report the incident to the Board of Nursing
• B. File a formal reprimand
• C. Terminate the nurse
• D. Charge the nurse with a tort

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The appropriate action after discussing the problem with the nurse is to document the incident and file a formal reprimand. Reporting to the Board of Nursing may be necessary if the behavior persists or harm occurs to the client, but it is not the initial step. Termination should be considered if the issue continues despite warnings. Charging the nurse with a tort is not a suitable course of action in this situation as a tort refers to a wrongful act against a client or their belongings, not an appropriate disciplinary measure. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect.

5. An elderly client is diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She has surgery followed by chemotherapy with fluorouracil (Adrucil) IV. What should the nurse do if she notices crystals and cloudiness in the IV medication?

• A. Discard the solution and order a new bag
• B. Warm the solution
• C. Continue the infusion and document the finding
• D. Discontinue the medication

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Crystals in the solution are not normal and should not be administered to the client. Discarding the solution and ordering a new bag is the correct action to ensure the client's safety. Warming the solution, as suggested in answer B, will not resolve the issue of crystals and cloudiness, which could potentially harm the client. Continuing the infusion, as in answer C, could pose a risk to the client due to the presence of abnormal substances. Answer D, discontinuing the medication, would typically require a doctor's order and should be done after discarding the contaminated solution.

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