Nursing Elites

1. While assessing an Rh-positive newborn whose mother is Rh-negative, the nurse recognizes the risk for hyperbilirubinemia. Which of the following should be reported immediately?

• A. Jaundice evident at 26 hours
• B. Hematocrit of 55%
• C. Serum bilirubin of 12 mg/dL
• D. Positive Coombs test

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A serum bilirubin level of 12 mg/dL in a newborn is concerning and can indicate a significant risk of hyperbilirubinemia, which requires immediate medical intervention to prevent complications like kernicterus. Jaundice at 26 hours (Choice A) is a symptom, not a laboratory result, and needs monitoring but not an immediate report. Hematocrit of 55% (Choice B) may be elevated but is not indicative of hyperbilirubinemia. A positive Coombs test (Choice D) indicates the presence of antibodies on the newborn's red blood cells but does not directly correlate with the risk of hyperbilirubinemia.

2. A client has developed thrombophlebitis of the left leg. Which nursing intervention should be given the highest priority?

• A. Elevate leg on 2 pillows
• B. Apply support stockings
• C. Apply warm compresses
• D. Maintain complete bed rest

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The highest priority nursing intervention for a client with thrombophlebitis of the left leg is to elevate the leg on 2 pillows. Elevating the leg helps reduce swelling and pain associated with thrombophlebitis by promoting venous return. Applying support stockings (choice B) can be beneficial but is not the highest priority as elevation is more effective in the acute phase. Applying warm compresses (choice C) may worsen the condition by dilating the blood vessels, leading to increased pain and swelling. Maintaining complete bed rest (choice D) is important, but elevation takes precedence to improve circulation and reduce the risk of complications.

3. What does the term 'vital statistics' refer to?

• A. The systematic study of vital events such as births, illnesses, marriages, divorce, separation, and deaths
• B. Morbidity
• C. Statistics
• D. Mortality

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The term 'vital statistics' specifically refers to the systematic study of vital events, including births, illnesses, marriages, divorces, separations, and deaths. This field focuses on quantifying and analyzing these essential life events within a population. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while they may be related to data collection and analysis, they do not encompass the broad spectrum of vital events covered under the term 'vital statistics.' Morbidity refers to the prevalence of a specific illness or disease within a population, statistics is a more general term for numerical data analysis, and mortality specifically pertains to deaths within a population.

4. A nurse is practicing community health nursing when:

• A. leading a support group for obese adolescents
• B. visiting an old woman in her condominium to change her postsurgical dressing
• C. being in a clinic instructing a couple about newborn care
• D. performing any of these activities

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Correct! Community health nursing involves a broad scope of activities that focus on promoting and preserving the health of populations rather than individuals. This includes leading support groups, providing home care, and educating communities. The other options represent different aspects of nursing care such as home health nursing, wound care, and maternal-child health - which are not exclusive to community health nursing.

5. During the care of a client with Legionnaire's disease, which finding would require the nurse's immediate attention?

• A. Pleuritic pain on inspiration
• B. Dry mucus membranes in the mouth
• C. A decrease in respiratory rate from 34 to 24
• D. Decrease in chest wall expansion

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A decrease in chest wall expansion suggests that the client may be experiencing a serious complication, such as worsening pneumonia or respiratory failure, requiring immediate medical attention. This finding indicates a potential decrease in lung function, which could lead to respiratory distress. Pleuritic pain on inspiration may be related to the disease process but does not indicate an immediate need for intervention. Dry mucus membranes in the mouth may require attention but are not as critical as a decrease in chest wall expansion. A decrease in respiratory rate could be concerning but is not as urgent as a decrease in chest wall expansion, which directly impacts respiratory function.

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