Nursing Elites

1. Which sign might a healthcare professional observe in a client with a high ammonia level?

• A. coma
• B. edema
• C. hypoxia
• D. polyuria

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A high ammonia level can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, which includes symptoms like confusion, disorientation, and can progress to coma. Coma is a severe condition of unconsciousness. Edema is swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in body tissues, not typically associated with high ammonia levels. Hypoxia is a condition of inadequate oxygen supply to tissues and organs, not directly related to high ammonia levels. Polyuria is excessive urination, which is not a typical sign of high ammonia levels.

2. 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.

3. During the change of shift, the oncoming nurse notes a discrepancy in the number of Percocet (Oxycodone) listed and the number present in the narcotic drawer. The nurse's first action should be to:

• A. Notify the hospital pharmacist
• B. Notify the nursing supervisor
• C. Notify the Board of Nursing
• D. Notify the director of nursing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The first action the nurse should take is to report the finding to the nursing supervisor and follow the chain of command. Notifying the nursing supervisor allows for immediate action within the facility to address the discrepancy. If it is found that the pharmacy is in error, then notifying the hospital pharmacist (Choice A) would be appropriate. Choices C and D, notifying the Board of Nursing and the director of nursing, are not the initial steps to take. These options may be necessary if theft is suspected or if the facility's internal response is inadequate. Therefore, they are incorrect answers.

4. When documenting in the client’s record, what type of information should be recorded?

• A. educated predictions of outcomes
• B. personal opinions
• C. objective information
• D. subjective information

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When documenting in a client's record, it is crucial to record objective information. Objective information is factual, based on observations and measurable data. This type of information is essential for accurate and effective communication among healthcare professionals involved in the client's care. Choices A and B, educated predictions of outcomes and personal opinions, are subjective in nature and may not provide an accurate representation of the client's condition. Choice D, subjective information, includes personal feelings, interpretations, and opinions, which are not ideal for documentation as they can be biased and unreliable.

5. While observing a client using crutches for a leg injury, which action would indicate a need for more education by the LPN?

• A. The client places the top padding 1-2 inches below the axilla with a firm grip on the handles.
• B. The client rests the axilla on the top padding and loosely grips the handles with hands.
• C. The client has a slight bend in the elbow when using the handles.
• D. When going down the stairs, the client leads with the injured leg.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Resting the axilla on the top padding can cause nerve damage; instead, the client should place the top padding 1-2 inches below the axilla with a firm grip on the handles for proper support and stability while using crutches. Having a slight bend in the elbow when using the handles (choice C) is a correct technique to ensure proper weight distribution. Leading with the uninjured leg when going down the stairs (choice D) is the correct way to maintain balance and prevent further injury to the injured leg. Therefore, choice B indicates a need for more education to prevent potential nerve damage and ensure safe crutch use.

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