Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is a sign of hypocalcemia?

• A. Hyperactive reflexes.
• B. Depressed reflexes.
• C. Muscle cramps.
• D. Seizures.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hyperactive reflexes are a classic sign of hypocalcemia. Hypocalcemia leads to increased neuromuscular excitability, resulting in hyperactive reflexes. Depressed reflexes (Choice B) are not typically associated with hypocalcemia. Muscle cramps (Choice C) can be seen in hypocalcemia due to muscle irritability but are not a specific sign. Seizures (Choice D) can occur in severe cases of hypocalcemia but are not as common as hyperactive reflexes.

2. A female client taking oral contraceptives reports to the nurse that she is experiencing calf pain. What action should the nurse implement?

• A. Determine if the client has also experienced breast tenderness and weight gain.
• B. Encourage the client to begin a regular, daily program of walking and exercise.
• C. Advise the client to notify the healthcare provider for immediate medical attention.
• D. Tell the client to stop taking the medication for a week to see if symptoms subside.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Calf pain is indicative of thrombophlebitis, a serious, life-threatening complication associated with the use of oral contraceptives which requires further assessment and possibly immediate medical intervention.

3. A nursing student is suctioning a client through a tracheostomy tube while a nurse observes. Which action by the student would prompt the nurse to intervene and demonstrate the correct procedure? Select all that apply.

• A. Setting the suction pressure to 60 mm Hg
• B. Applying suction throughout the procedure
• C. Assessing breath sounds before suctioning
• D. Placing the client in a supine position before the procedure

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct suction pressure for an adult client with a tracheostomy tube is typically between 80 to 120 mm Hg. Suction should be applied intermittently during catheter withdrawal to avoid damaging the airway. Assessing breath sounds before suctioning is important to ensure the procedure is necessary. Placing the client in a supine position before suctioning can compromise their airway; instead, the head of the bed should be elevated to facilitate proper drainage and reduce the risk of aspiration. Therefore, setting the suction pressure to 60 mm Hg is incorrect and would prompt the nurse to intervene and correct the procedure.

4. When planning activities for a socialization group for older residents of a long-term facility, what information would be most useful for the nurse?

• A. The length of time each resident has resided at the facility.
• B. A brief description of each resident's family life.
• C. The age of each resident.
• D. The usual activity patterns of each resident.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most useful information for the nurse when planning activities for a socialization group for older residents of a long-term facility would be the usual activity patterns of each resident. An older person's level of activity is a determining factor in adjustment to aging, as described by the Activity Theory of Aging. By understanding the usual activity patterns of each resident, the nurse can tailor activities that cater to their interests and abilities, promoting social engagement and overall well-being. The other options, such as the length of time residing at the facility, a brief description of family life, or the age of each resident, may provide some insights but do not directly relate to planning activities that support adjustment to aging and socialization within the group.

5. A client is returning home after arthroscopy of the shoulder. The nurse should tell the client:

• A. To resume full activity the next day
• B. Not to eat or drink anything until the next morning
• C. To keep the shoulder completely immobilized for the rest of the day
• D. To report to the physician the development of fever or redness and heat at the site

Correct answer: D

Rationale: After arthroscopy, it is important for the client to report any signs of infection, such as the development of fever or redness and heat at the site, to the physician promptly. Options A, B, and C are incorrect. The client should not resume full activity the next day as rest and limited movement are usually recommended post-arthroscopy. It is not necessary to withhold food or fluids until the next morning; the client may resume the usual diet immediately unless otherwise instructed. While immobilization may be recommended for a period, keeping the shoulder completely immobilized for the rest of the day is not typically necessary post-arthroscopy.

Similar Questions