Nursing Elites

1. Which serum laboratory value should the nurse monitor carefully for a client who has had an NG tube for suctioning for the past week?

• A. White blood cell count
• B. Albumin
• C. Calcium
• D. Sodium

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should carefully monitor serum sodium levels for a client with an NG tube on suction for an extended period due to potential fluid loss and the risk of developing hyponatremia, an electrolyte imbalance. Hyponatremia can occur as a result of continual suctioning leading to fluid loss, making it crucial to monitor sodium levels to prevent complications associated with low sodium levels. Monitoring white blood cell count, albumin, or calcium is not directly related to the impact of NG tube suction on fluid and electrolyte balance, so these values are not the priority in this scenario.

2. The client with cholecystitis is being instructed on dietary choices. Which meal best meets the dietary needs of this client?

• A. Steak, baked beans, and a salad
• B. Broiled fish, green beans, and an apple
• C. Pork chops, macaroni and cheese, and grapes
• D. Avocado salad, milk, and angel food cake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Cholecystitis requires a low-fat diet to reduce stress on the gallbladder. The meal of broiled fish, green beans, and an apple aligns with this dietary recommendation by providing lean protein and low-fat, high-fiber foods that are easier for the body to digest, making it the most suitable choice for a client with cholecystitis.

3. While reviewing the side effects of a newly prescribed medication, a 72-year-old client notes that one of the side effects is a reduction in sexual drive. Which is the best response by the nurse?

• A. How will this affect your present sexual activity?
• B. How active is your current sex life?
• C. How has your sex life changed as you have become older?
• D. Tell me about your sexual needs as an older adult.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Option A is the best response as it directly addresses the client's concern about the reduction in sexual drive caused by the medication. It encourages the client to express their thoughts and feelings about how this side effect may impact their current sexual activity, facilitating open communication and understanding between the nurse and the client. Choices B, C, and D are not as appropriate as they do not directly address the client's immediate concern regarding the impact of the medication on their sexual drive.

4. When making the bed of a client who needs a bed cradle, which action should the nurse include?

• A. Teach the client to call for help before getting out of bed.
• B. Keep both the upper and lower side rails in a raised position.
• C. Keep the bed in the lowest position while changing the sheets.
• D. Drape the top sheet and covers loosely over the bed cradle.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A bed cradle is used to keep the top bedclothes off the client, so the nurse should drape the top sheet and covers loosely over the cradle. This helps in maintaining the proper positioning and function of the bed cradle to ensure the client's comfort and safety during bed making.

5. A client with a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is receiving oxygen via nasal cannula at 4 liters per minute. Which assessment finding indicates a need for immediate action?

• A. The client's respiratory rate is 14 breaths per minute.
• B. The client's oxygen saturation is 92%.
• C. The client reports shortness of breath.
• D. The client's respiratory rate is 24 breaths per minute.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A report of shortness of breath (C) indicates that the client is not tolerating the oxygen therapy well and may need an adjustment. Shortness of breath is a critical symptom in a client with COPD, as it signifies potential respiratory distress. A respiratory rate of 14 (A) is within an acceptable range for a client with COPD and does not require immediate action. An oxygen saturation of 92% (B) is slightly lower but still acceptable in COPD patients. Although a respiratory rate of 24 (D) is higher, it is not as immediately concerning as shortness of breath in this context.

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