Nursing Elites

1. A client is taking hydrocodone (Vicodin) for chronic back pain. The client has required an increase in the dose and asks whether this means he is addicted to Vicodin. The nurse should base her reply on the knowledge that:

• A. the client's body has developed tolerance, requiring more drug to produce the same effect.
• B. the client is preoccupied with getting the drug and is experiencing loss of control, indicating drug dependence.
• C. addiction is the term used to describe physical dependence with withdrawal symptoms and tolerance.
• D. the client has a dual diagnosis of substance abuse and chronic back pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Drug tolerance is characterized by the ability to ingest a larger dose without adverse effects and decreased sensitivity to the substance. In this scenario, the client needing an increased dose of hydrocodone to achieve the same pain relief indicates tolerance developing, not addiction. Choice B is incorrect as it describes drug dependence, where the individual is preoccupied with the drug and has a loss of control. Choice C is incorrect because addiction involves psychological behaviors related to substance use, not just physical dependence with withdrawal symptoms and tolerance. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to a dual diagnosis, which is the coexistence of substance abuse and psychiatric disorders, not the development of tolerance to a drug.

2. The nurse is caring for a client scheduled for a surgical repair of a sacular abdominal aortic aneurysm. Which assessment is most crucial during the preoperative period?

• A. Assessment of the client's level of anxiety
• B. Evaluation of the client's exercise tolerance
• C. Identification of peripheral pulses
• D. Assessment of bowel sounds and activity

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most crucial assessment during the preoperative period for a client scheduled for surgical repair of a sacular abdominal aortic aneurysm is the identification of peripheral pulses. This is essential because during surgery, the aorta will be clamped, potentially affecting blood circulation to the kidneys and lower extremities. Monitoring peripheral pulses helps assess circulation to the lower extremities, ensuring adequate perfusion. While assessing the client's anxiety level (choice A) is important, it is not as critical as monitoring peripheral pulses in this case. Evaluating exercise tolerance (choice B) is not typically recommended preoperatively for this specific condition. Assessing bowel sounds and activity (choice D) is also relevant but takes a lower priority compared to identifying peripheral pulses in this scenario.

3. The nurse observes bilateral bruises on the arms of an elderly client in a long-term care facility. Which of the following questions should the nurse ask this client?

• A. "How did you get those bruises?"?
• B. "Did someone grab you by your arms?"?
• C. "Do you fall often?"?
• D. "What did you bump against?"?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When addressing suspected abuse, it is crucial to ask direct questions to determine the cause of injuries. Choice B is the most appropriate as it directly inquires about the possibility of someone grabbing the client's arms, which could indicate abuse. This question can help uncover potential abuse and provide necessary intervention. Choices A, C, and D are less direct and may not elicit the critical information needed to address abuse effectively. Clients often hesitate to report abuse due to feelings of shame and fear of retaliation, making a direct approach essential in such situations.

4. The nurse is working with families who have been displaced by a fire in an apartment complex. What is the priority intervention during the initial assessment?

• A. Provide a liaison to meet housing needs.
• B. Attentively listen when clients describe their feelings.
• C. Offer nurturing support for clients who are confused by the events.
• D. Provide structure for clients exhibiting moderate to severe anxiety.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to provide a liaison to meet housing needs. In the initial assessment after a disaster like a fire, ensuring basic needs such as housing, clothing, and food are met is the priority. Once the physical needs are addressed, the nurse can then focus on assisting clients in managing the psychological effects of loss. Choices B, C, and D are not the priority during the initial assessment as addressing housing needs should come first to provide a sense of stability and security for the affected families.

5. The best definition of communication is:

• A. the sending and receiving of messages.
• B. the effect of sending verbal messages.
• C. an ongoing, interactive form of transmitting transactions.
• D. the use of message variables to send information.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Communication is defined as an ongoing, interactive form of transmitting transactions. It involves a dynamic process of sending (encoding) and receiving (decoding) messages while being influenced by the experiences and perceptions of both the sender and receiver. This process is interactive and occurs within an environment, shaping individuals' self-concept, identity, and relationships. The correct answer captures the complexity and interactive nature of communication. Choice A, 'the sending and receiving of messages,' is too simplistic and does not encompass the interactive nature of communication. Choice B, 'the effect of sending verbal messages,' focuses solely on verbal communication and overlooks non-verbal forms. Choice D, 'the use of message variables to send information,' emphasizes technical aspects rather than the interactive and transactional nature of communication.

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