Nursing Elites

1. When assessing a geriatric patient who has possibly experienced an acute ischemic stroke, which of the following questions would be MOST appropriate to ask?

• A. When did you first notice the symptoms?
• B. Do you have a history of high blood pressure?
• C. What medications do you take and why?
• D. Have you previously had a heart attack?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate question to ask when assessing a geriatric patient who may have experienced an acute ischemic stroke is when the symptoms were first noticed. This information is crucial for determining the time window for potential treatments like thrombolytic therapy, as prompt intervention is necessary for stroke management. Option B is not as relevant in the acute assessment of stroke, though important for overall health history. Option C is important but may not be as time-sensitive as determining symptom onset. Option D focuses on a different cardiac event, not directly related to the current concern of a possible stroke.

2. What characteristic indicates that a mass on a newborn's head is a cephalohematoma?

• A. The mass appears on the second day after birth.
• B. The mass grows larger when the newborn cries.
• C. The head appears asymmetrical.
• D. The mass is located on only one side of the head.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A cephalohematoma typically appears between the first and second days after birth, making choice A the correct answer. It results from blood vessel rupture between a cranial bone and the periosteal membrane. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the growth of the mass when the newborn cries, asymmetrical head appearance, or the mass being located on only one side of the head are not specific indicators of a cephalohematoma.

3. How should the nurse prepare the sibling of a near-drowning accident victim who wants to see his brother in the pediatric intensive care unit, considering the child was present during the accident?

• A. Have the parents explain to the child why the sibling is so sick and inform the child that this could be the last time he sees his brother.
• B. Reassure the sibling not to cry in the child's room to avoid upsetting the ill child.
• C. If death is imminent, avoid informing the child about it and minimize involvement in care to protect the child from further trauma.
• D. Cover tubes and wires with a sheet, wash off any existing blood, and prepare him for what he will see.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When preparing a sibling to see their brother in the pediatric intensive care unit after a near-drowning accident, it is essential to cover tubes and wires with a sheet, wash off any existing blood, and explain what the sibling will see. This approach helps the sibling understand the situation better and prepares them emotionally for the encounter, reducing potential distress and trauma. By providing information and visual preparation, the sibling can have a more controlled and less overwhelming experience when visiting their brother in the intensive care unit. Choice A is incorrect as informing the child that this could be the last time he sees his sibling may cause unnecessary distress and anxiety. Choice B is incorrect as it dismisses the sibling's emotional response, which is essential to address in a supportive manner. Choice C is incorrect as honesty and appropriate information sharing are crucial, even in difficult situations, to help the child cope effectively with the circumstances.

4. A child newly diagnosed with diabetes mellitus has been stabilized with insulin injections daily. A nurse prepares a discharge teaching plan regarding the insulin. The teaching plan should reinforce which of the following concepts?

• A. Always store insulin vials in the refrigerator
• B. Adjust insulin dosage before exercise
• C. Presence of ketones in urine indicates a need for less insulin
• D. Systematically rotate injection sites

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Systematically rotating injection sites is crucial to prevent tissue damage and ensure optimal insulin absorption. This practice helps in preventing lipohypertrophy, a condition characterized by fat accumulation at injection sites, which can affect insulin absorption and lead to inconsistent blood glucose control. By rotating injection sites, the risk of skin and tissue damage is minimized, and insulin's effectiveness is maintained over time.

5. When drawing blood from the diabetic patient for a glycosylated hemoglobin (HBA1c) test, the nurse explains to the woman that the test is used to determine:

• A. The highest glucose level in the past week.
• B. Her insulin levels.
• C. Glucose levels over the past three months.
• D. Her usual fasting glucose level.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The glycosylated hemoglobin (HBA1c) test reflects the average blood sugar levels over the past three months. It provides a more comprehensive view of the individual's glucose control compared to a single point-in-time measurement like a fasting glucose level or the highest glucose level in the past week. Choice A is incorrect because it focuses on a single high glucose level rather than the overall control over a period. Choice B is incorrect as HBA1c is not a test for insulin levels. Choice D is incorrect as the HBA1c test does not reflect a single fasting glucose level but rather an average over a more extended period.

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