Nursing Elites

1. The nurse on the postsurgical unit received a client who was transferred from the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) and is planning care for this client. The nurse understands that staff should begin planning for this client’s discharge at which point during the hospitalization?

• A. Is admitted to the surgical unit
• B. Is transferred from the PACU to the postsurgical unit
• C. Is able to perform activities of daily living independently
• D. Has been assessed by the healthcare provider for the first time after surgery

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Discharge planning should begin as soon as the patient is admitted to the surgical unit to ensure a smooth transition. It is important to start early to address any potential barriers to discharge, coordinate resources, and provide adequate education and support. Choices B, C, and D are not the appropriate points to start discharge planning as they do not mark the beginning of the hospitalization phase related to the surgical unit.

2. Which nursing instruction should the nurse discuss with the client who is receiving glucocorticoids for Addison’s disease?

• A. Discuss the importance of tapering medications when discontinuing medication
• B. Explain that the dose will need to be decreased during times of stress or infection
• C. Instruct the client to take medication on an empty stomach with a glass of water
• D. Encourage the client to wear a MedicAlert bracelet and carry a card in the wallet

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to discuss the importance of tapering medications when discontinuing medication. Tapering glucocorticoids is crucial to prevent adrenal insufficiency, which can occur if the medication is stopped abruptly. Choice B is incorrect because it focuses on adjustments during stress or infection, not discontinuation. Choice C is unrelated to the management of glucocorticoids. Choice D is important for emergency identification but is not directly related to medication management.

3. Short-bowel syndrome usually occurs when:

• 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 usually occurs when more than 50% of the small intestine is surgically removed. This condition results in malabsorption of nutrients and fluids due to the reduced length of the small intestine. Choice A is incorrect because the contraction of longitudinal muscles does not lead to short-bowel syndrome. Choice C is incorrect as short-bowel syndrome is primarily related to the small intestine, not the large intestine. Choice D is incorrect since decreased transit time due to infection or drugs is not a direct cause of short-bowel syndrome.

4. The nurse teaches the mother of an infant how to care for her infant following repair of a cleft lip. It is MOST important for the nurse to include which of the following instructions?

• A. Feed the infant with a newborn nipple while holding him in the recumbent position
• B. Clean the suture site with a cotton-tipped swab soaked in Betadine
• C. Place the infant in the prone position after feeding
• D. Feed the infant with a rubber-tipped syringe and burp frequently

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because feeding the infant with a rubber-tipped syringe reduces the risk of injury to the surgical site and prevents aspiration. Choice A is incorrect because feeding in the recumbent position can increase the risk of aspiration. Choice B is incorrect as Betadine is not recommended for wound care near the mouth due to its potential toxicity if ingested. Choice C is incorrect because placing the infant in the prone position after feeding can increase the risk of regurgitation and aspiration.

5. 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: Correct! When a patient is prescribed an oral anticoagulant, the nurse should monitor for signs of bleeding. Oral anticoagulants are medications that prevent blood clot formation but can increase the risk of bleeding. Monitoring for signs such as easy bruising, blood in urine or stool, and prolonged bleeding from minor cuts is essential. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because oral anticoagulants do not typically affect blood glucose levels, blood pressure, or appetite.

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