Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following syndromes associated with incomplete lesions of the spinal cord results from damage to one-half of the spinal cord?

• A. Brown-S�quard syndrome
• B. posterior cord syndrome
• C. central cord syndrome
• D. cauda equina syndrome

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Brown-S�quard syndrome is indeed associated with incomplete lesions of the spinal cord, and it specifically results from damage to one-half of the spinal cord. This syndrome manifests as ipsilateral motor paralysis, ipsilateral loss of vibration and proprioception, and contralateral loss of pain and temperature sensation. Posterior cord syndrome mainly involves the loss of proprioception and vibratory sense, while sparing motor function and pain sensation. Central cord syndrome typically presents with more weakness in the upper extremities compared to the lower extremities due to central spinal cord damage. Cauda equina syndrome affects the nerve roots at the level of the conus medullaris, leading to symptoms like lower extremity weakness, numbness, and bowel/bladder dysfunction.

2. A Roman Catholic client is preparing to have magnetic resonance imaging. He wants to wear his metal crucifix pendant while he is receiving the test. Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?

• A. "Because it gives you comfort, you may wear it."?
• B. "It is a violation of religious rights to forbid it."?
• C. "I am sorry, but it is not safe for you to wear the crucifix during this test."?
• D. "You may wear it because it is important to you."?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: No metal objects may be worn while receiving magnetic resonance imaging due to safety risks involved with the strong magnet. The correct response by the nurse should prioritize the safety of the client. Allowing the client to wear the metal crucifix poses a risk of injury or interference with the imaging process. Option A is not appropriate as safety takes precedence over comfort in this situation. Option B is incorrect as it does not address the safety concerns associated with wearing metal objects during an MRI. Option D is also incorrect as it fails to acknowledge the safety issue involved and instead focuses solely on the importance to the client. It is important for the nurse to offer alternative forms of spiritual support that do not pose a risk during the MRI procedure.

3. A client with an ileus is placed on intestinal tube suction. Which of the following electrolytes is lost with intestinal suction?

• A. calcium
• B. magnesium
• C. potassium
• D. sodium chloride

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a client with an ileus is placed on intestinal tube suction, the primary electrolyte lost is sodium chloride. Duodenal intestinal fluid contains potassium (K+), sodium (Na+), and bicarbonate. Suctioning is done to remove excess fluids, leading to a decrease in the client's sodium chloride levels. Therefore, options A, B, and C are incorrect as calcium, magnesium, and potassium are not the primary electrolytes lost during intestinal suction in a client with an ileus.

4. An Asian family has an elderly member with the latest stage of Alzheimer's disease. The physician has recommended placement in a long-term care facility, but the family refuses. Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?

• A. "You really need to listen to what the physician says."?
• B. "You will get too tired to take care of him at home."?
• C. "What can I do to assist you to care for him at home?"?
• D. "You are too busy to be taking care of an elderly person."?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is, "What can I do to assist you to care for him at home?"? This response shows cultural sensitivity and respect for the family's values. In many Asian cultures, there is a strong tradition of caring for elders at home rather than in a long-term care facility. By offering assistance to the family in caring for their elderly member at home, the nurse shows understanding and support. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not acknowledge or respect the family's cultural beliefs and values regarding caring for elderly family members.

5. A nursing assistant who has been employed in the long-term care center for 8 weeks is consistently taking extended lunch breaks. The nursing assistant's behavior has caused problems with client care during lunch hours. What is the appropriate way for the nurse to deal with this situation?

• A. Ignoring the situation
• B. Documenting the problem in the nursing assistant's personnel file
• C. Asking other staff members to cover for the nursing assistant
• D. Meeting with the nursing assistant to discuss the behavior and initiate problem-solving measures

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Taking extended lunch breaks is an unacceptable behavior, especially when it affects client care. The appropriate way for the nurse to deal with this situation is to meet with the nursing assistant to discuss the behavior and initiate problem-solving measures. This direct approach allows for open communication and the opportunity to address the issue effectively. Ignoring the situation (Choice A), asking other staff members to cover (Choice C), or documenting the problem in the nursing assistant's personnel file (Choice B) are not effective solutions. Ignoring the behavior does not address the issue, asking others to cover may not solve the problem at its root, and documenting the problem should come after attempting to resolve the issue through communication and problem-solving first.

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