Nursing Elites

1. While caring for a client with infective endocarditis, the nurse must be alert for signs of pulmonary embolism. Which of the following assessment findings suggests this complication?

• A. Positive Homan's sign
• B. Fever and chills
• C. Dyspnea and cough
• D. Sensory impairment

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Dyspnea and cough.' Pulmonary embolism often presents with a sudden onset of dyspnea (difficulty breathing) and cough, which are due to the obstruction of blood flow in the pulmonary arteries. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Positive Homan's sign is associated with deep vein thrombosis, fever and chills are nonspecific symptoms commonly seen in infective endocarditis, and sensory impairment is not typically indicative of pulmonary embolism.

2. A client with diabetes mellitus is receiving insulin glargine (Lantus). The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following side effects?

• A. Hypoglycemia
• B. Hyperkalemia
• C. Hypertension
• D. Hypercalcemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Insulin glargine is a long-acting insulin used to control blood sugar levels in diabetes. The nurse should monitor the client for hypoglycemia, which is a potential side effect of insulin therapy. Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop too low, leading to symptoms such as shakiness, dizziness, sweating, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. Hyperkalemia (choice B) is an elevated potassium level, not typically associated with insulin glargine. Hypertension (choice C) is high blood pressure, which is not a common side effect of insulin glargine. Hypercalcemia (choice D) is an elevated calcium level and is not related to the use of insulin glargine.

3. The nurse at a health fair has taken a client's blood pressure twice, 10 minutes apart, in the same arm while the client is seated. The nurse records the two blood pressures of 172/104 mm Hg and 164/98 mm Hg. What is the appropriate nursing action in response to these readings?

• A. Refer the client to a nutritionist after providing health teaching about a low-sodium diet.
• B. Place the client in a recumbent position and call the paramedics for transport to the hospital.
• C. Talk with the client to assess whether there is stress in the client's life and refer to a counseling service.
• D. Take the client's blood pressure in the other arm and then schedule a healthcare practitioner's appointment for as soon as possible.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The appropriate nursing action in response to significantly high blood pressure readings like 172/104 mm Hg and 164/98 mm Hg is to confirm the readings by taking the blood pressure in the other arm. This can help rule out any error or issue specific to that arm. The nurse should then schedule a healthcare practitioner's appointment for as soon as possible to further assess the client's condition and determine the appropriate intervention. Choice A is incorrect because solely referring the client to a nutritionist for a low-sodium diet without further assessment or confirmation of the blood pressure readings is premature. Choice B is incorrect as the client is already seated, and calling paramedics for immediate transport to the hospital is not warranted based solely on the blood pressure readings provided. Choice C is incorrect as stress may not be the sole reason for the high blood pressure readings, and further assessment is required before referring the client to counseling services.

4. On admission to the psychiatric unit, the client is trembling and appears fearful. The nurse’s initial response should be to

• A. Give the client orientation materials and review the unit rules and regulations
• B. Introduce oneself and accompany the client to their room
• C. Take the client to the day room and introduce them to the other clients
• D. Ask the nursing assistant to get the client’s vital signs and complete the admission search

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In situations where a client is trembling and fearful upon admission to a psychiatric unit, it is essential to prioritize building trust and reducing anxiety. By introducing oneself and accompanying the client to their room, the nurse can establish a therapeutic relationship, provide a sense of security, and address the client's immediate emotional needs. Choices A, C, and D are not the most appropriate initial responses as they do not directly address the client's emotional state or focus on establishing a supportive relationship.

5. The nurse is preparing an orientation class for new employees at an inner city clinic that serves a low-income population. Which information should the nurse include in the presentation to these new employees?

• A. A lack of transportation is a major barrier for the clinic's clients.
• B. Basic physiologic needs are likely to be unmet in this clinic's client population.
• C. Printed material is less effective for this population with limited reading skills.
• D. Group education classes are often poorly attended by non-compliant clients.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because addressing basic physiologic needs is crucial for low-income populations. Ensuring that basic needs such as food, shelter, and safety are met is essential for these clients to engage effectively in their healthcare. Choice A talks about transportation, which can be a barrier but may not be the major impediment. Choice C focuses on printed material and reading skills, which are important but not as fundamental as addressing basic physiologic needs. Choice D makes assumptions about client attendance based on compliance, which is not the most critical information to include in an orientation about serving a low-income population.

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