Nursing Elites

1. When assessing a client with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the nurse should expect which of the following findings?

• A. mental confusion
• B. muscular weakness
• C. sensory loss
• D. emotional liability

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Clients with ALS typically present with progressive muscular weakness and wasting as a hallmark feature of the disease. This weakness affects voluntary muscles, leading to challenges in mobility and daily activities. Sensory loss is not a characteristic feature of ALS, and individuals usually maintain their mental clarity without experiencing mental confusion. Emotional liability, characterized by sudden, uncontrolled changes in emotions, is not a common finding in ALS. While individuals may experience periods of grief due to the progressive nature of the disease, emotional liability is not a usual manifestation. Therefore, the correct finding to expect when assessing a client with ALS is muscular weakness.

2. Which of the following provides the framework for confidentiality and the client's right to privacy?

• A. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
• B. CDC Surveillance Programs
• C. American Nurses Association Code of Ethics
• D. Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). HIPAA is the federal statute that outlines client confidentiality and the client's right to privacy. It establishes national standards to protect individuals' medical records and personal health information. The American Nurses Association Code of Ethics emphasizes principles of nursing ethics but does not serve as a legal framework for confidentiality and privacy. CDC Surveillance Programs focus on disease surveillance and control at a public health level and are not directly related to individual client privacy. The durable power of attorney for health care pertains to granting legal decision-making authority to another individual in healthcare matters, rather than addressing confidentiality and privacy rights.

3. Which of the following statements by an adult child of a client with late-stage Alzheimer's disease indicates a need for further teaching by the nurse?

• A. "I should provide a regular schedule for toileting."?
• B. "I should talk to my father less because he can't communicate."?
• C. "I should give my father oral care after every meal and bedtime."?
• D. "I should assist my father with eating and drinking."?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In late-stage Alzheimer's disease, although verbal communication may be challenging or limited, it is essential to maintain communication through talking and non-verbal cues like touching. Limiting communication can lead to feelings of isolation and worsen the emotional well-being of the individual. Choices A, C, and D reflect appropriate care strategies by addressing toileting needs, oral care, and assistance with eating and drinking, which are crucial aspects of caregiving for a client with late-stage Alzheimer's disease.

4. When ambulating a client with right-sided weakness, a nursing assistant should be positioned on which side of the client?

• A. Stands behind the client
• B. Positions the free hand on the client's shoulder
• C. Stands on the right side of the client
• D. Grasps the security belt in the midspine area of the small of the client's back

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When ambulating a client with right-sided weakness, the nursing assistant should stand on the affected side, which in this case is the client's right side. This position allows the assistant to provide proper support and assistance. Standing behind the client (Choice A) is incorrect as the assistant should be on the affected side. Positioning the free hand on the client's shoulder (Choice B) is a correct action as it helps in pulling the client toward them in case of a forward fall. Grasping the security belt in the midspine area of the small of the client's back (Choice D) is also correct to provide support and stability during ambulation.

5. Why is accurate documentation of assessment findings regarding pressure ulcers crucial?

• A. To comply with legal requirements for documenting lesions.
• B. To meet hospital policies for documenting lesions.
• C. To fulfill physician's documentation requirements for lesions.
• D. Because the nursing assessment of ulcers is a standard of nursing practice.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Accurate documentation of assessment findings regarding pressure ulcers is crucial because the nursing assessment of ulcers is a standard practice in nursing care. Documenting these findings not only ensures continuity of care but also plays a vital role in preventing further progression of the ulcer. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while laws, hospital policies, and physician requirements may influence documentation practices, the primary reason for accurate documentation lies in the standards of nursing practice and the quality of patient care.

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