Nursing Elites

1. When does short-bowel syndrome usually occur?

• A. The longitudinal muscles of the intestine contract
• B. More than 50% of the small intestine is surgically removed
• C. More than 50% of the large intestine is surgically removed
• D. Transit time is decreased due to infection or drugs

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Short-bowel syndrome typically occurs when more than 50% of the small intestine is surgically removed. This condition leads to malabsorption issues due to the reduced length of the intestine for absorption. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because short-bowel syndrome specifically relates to the insufficient length of the small intestine, not the contraction of longitudinal muscles, surgical removal of the large intestine, or decreased transit time due to infection or drugs.

2. When is Aspirin most effective when taken?

• A. On an empty stomach with cold water
• B. On a full stomach after a meal
• C. With a glass of fruit juice
• D. First thing in the morning

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Aspirin is best absorbed on an empty stomach to maximize its effectiveness. Taking it with cold water helps to enhance absorption. Choice B is incorrect as taking aspirin on a full stomach may reduce its absorption. Choice C is incorrect as fruit juice can sometimes interact with medications. Choice D is incorrect as taking aspirin first thing in the morning may not optimize its absorption.

3. The client is diagnosed with hereditary spherocytosis. Which treatment/procedure would the nurse prepare the client to receive?

• A. Bone marrow transplant
• B. Splenectomy
• C. Frequent blood transfusions
• D. Liver biopsy

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Splenectomy. Splenectomy is the treatment of choice for hereditary spherocytosis. By removing the spleen, the excessive destruction of red blood cells is reduced, preventing hemolysis and improving anemia. Bone marrow transplant (A) is not a standard treatment for hereditary spherocytosis. Frequent blood transfusions (C) may temporarily address anemia but do not treat the underlying cause. Liver biopsy (D) is not indicated as a primary treatment for hereditary spherocytosis.

4. What intervention would be most important for the nurse to implement for the client with a left nephrectomy?

• A. Assess the intravenous fluids for rate and volume
• B. Change the surgical dressing daily at the same time
• C. Monitor the client’s medication levels daily
• D. Monitor the percentage of each meal eaten

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Assess the intravenous fluids for rate and volume. After a nephrectomy, monitoring intravenous fluids is crucial to ensure proper hydration and kidney function. Choice B is incorrect because changing the surgical dressing daily is important but not the most critical intervention. Choice C is incorrect as monitoring medication levels daily may be necessary but is not the priority after a nephrectomy. Choice D is irrelevant to the immediate postoperative care needed after a nephrectomy.

5. When a patient is prescribed an oral anticoagulant, what should the nurse monitor for?

• A. Elevated blood glucose
• B. Decreased blood pressure
• C. Signs of bleeding
• D. Increased appetite

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a patient is prescribed an oral anticoagulant, the nurse should monitor for signs of bleeding. Oral anticoagulants work by inhibiting the blood's ability to clot, which increases the risk of bleeding. Monitoring for signs of bleeding such as easy bruising, petechiae, hematuria, or bleeding gums is crucial to prevent complications. Elevated blood glucose (Choice A) is not directly related to oral anticoagulant use. Decreased blood pressure (Choice B) is not a common effect of oral anticoagulants. Increased appetite (Choice D) is not a typical side effect of oral anticoagulants and is not a primary concern when monitoring a patient on this medication.

Similar Questions