Nursing Elites

1. While auscultating heart sounds, the nurse hears a murmur. Which of these instruments would be used to assess this murmur?

• A. Electrocardiogram
• B. Bell of the stethoscope
• C. Diaphragm of the stethoscope
• D. Palpation with the nurse's palm of the hand

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instrument to assess a murmur while auscultating heart sounds is the bell of the stethoscope. An electrocardiogram is used to measure the heart's electrical activity, not to assess murmurs. Palpation with the nurse's palm of the hand is a method to assess pulses or textures, not heart murmurs. The diaphragm of the stethoscope is typically used for high-pitched sounds like breath, bowel, and normal heart sounds, whereas the bell is more suitable for soft, low-pitched sounds such as murmurs or extra heart sounds.

2. The hospital has sounded the call for a disaster drill on the evening shift. Which of these clients would the nurse prioritize first on the list to be discharged in order to make a room available for a new admission?

• A. A middle-aged client with a history of being ventilator dependent for over seven (7) years and admitted with bacterial pneumonia five days ago.
• B. A young adult with diabetes mellitus Type 2 for over ten (10) years and admitted with antibiotic-induced diarrhea 24 hours ago.
• C. An elderly client with a history of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and lupus, and was admitted with Stevens-Johnson syndrome that morning.
• D. An adolescent with a positive HIV test and admitted for acute cellulitis of the lower leg 48 hours ago.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The best candidate for discharge during a need for emergency room availability is a stable patient with a chronic condition who is familiar with their care. In this scenario, the middle-aged client in option A, who has been ventilator dependent for over seven years and admitted with bacterial pneumonia five days ago, is most suitable for discharge. This client is likely stable and can continue medication therapy at home, making them the most appropriate choice for discharge at this time. Choice B should not be the priority for discharge as the young adult with diabetes mellitus Type 2 admitted with antibiotic-induced diarrhea 24 hours ago may need further monitoring and management of their condition. Choice C, the elderly client with multiple comorbidities and admitted with Stevens-Johnson syndrome on the same day, is not a suitable candidate for immediate discharge as they may require ongoing medical attention and observation. Choice D, the adolescent with a positive HIV test and admitted for acute cellulitis of the lower leg 48 hours ago, should not be discharged first as acute cellulitis may require continued treatment and monitoring, especially in the context of a positive HIV status.

3. One major difference between long term care and respite centers is the fact that long term care facilities:

• A. provide both physical and emotional care on an ongoing basis, while respite centers offer only temporary services.
• B. provide care for residents on a long-term basis, while respite centers offer only outpatient services.
• C. provide care for residents on a long-term basis, while respite centers offer only temporary services.
• D. There is no difference. Long-term care and respite care are the same.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The major difference between long-term care and respite centers is that long-term care facilities provide both physical and emotional care on an ongoing, long-term basis. This continuous care is essential for residents who require extended assistance. In contrast, respite centers offer temporary services, providing similar care but for a short-term duration. These short-term services are designed to give family caregivers a break from their daily responsibilities. Choice A is incorrect because both long-term care and respite centers can offer both physical and emotional care, but the key distinction lies in the duration of care provided. Choice B is incorrect as respite centers do not typically offer outpatient services, and the focus is on temporary relief rather than long-term care. Choice D is incorrect as the question clearly highlights a major difference between long-term care and respite centers.

4. Which of the following would be most important for the nurse to keep in mind regarding the use of side rails for a confused patient?

• A. A person of small stature is at increased risk for injury from entrapment.
• B. A history of a previous fall from a bed with raised side rails is significant.
• C. The desire to prevent a patient from wandering is not sufficient reason for the use of side rails.
• D. Creative use of alternative measures indicates respect for the patient's dignity.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When considering the use of side rails for a confused patient, it is crucial for the nurse to understand that individuals of small stature are at a higher risk for injury from entrapment. Studies have shown that people of small stature are more likely to slip through or between the side rails, making them vulnerable to harm. It is essential to prioritize patient safety and avoid potential risks associated with entrapment. Conversely, a history of previous falls from a bed with raised side rails is significant as it indicates a heightened risk for future serious incidents. The desire to prevent a patient from wandering alone does not justify the use of side rails; instead, alternative measures should be creatively employed to respect the patient's dignity and avoid more serious fall-related injuries.

5. When preparing to perform a physical examination on an infant, what should the nurse do?

• A. Have the parent remove all clothing except the diaper.
• B. Instruct the parent not to feed the infant immediately before the examination.
• C. Allow the infant to suck on a pacifier during abdominal auscultation.
• D. Ensure the parent is present during the examination.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: For performing a physical examination on an infant, it is important to have the parent remove all clothing except the diaper to allow for a thorough examination while ensuring the infant remains comfortable. It is recommended not to feed the infant immediately before the examination but rather 1 to 2 hours after feeding when the baby is neither too drowsy nor too hungry. While a pacifier may be used during invasive assessments or if the infant is crying, it is not typically necessary during abdominal auscultation. Having the parent present during the examination is important for the infant's security and for the parent to understand the process; however, the clothing should still be removed except for the diaper to facilitate a comprehensive assessment.

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