Nursing Elites

1. A 38-year-old patient’s vital signs at 8 a.m. are axillary temperature 99.6°F (37.6°C); pulse rate 88; respiratory rate 30. Which findings should be reported?

• A. Respiratory rate only
• B. Temperature only
• C. Pulse rate and temperature
• D. Temperature and respiratory rate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Both an elevated temperature and an increased respiratory rate are abnormal vital signs that could indicate an underlying health issue. Reporting both of these findings is crucial to ensure appropriate evaluation and intervention if needed.

2. A client had oral surgery following a motor vehicle accident. The nurse assessing the client finds the skin flushed and warm. Which of the following would be the best method to take the client’s body temperature?

• A. Oral
• B. Axillary
• C. Arterial line
• D. Rectal

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In cases where the oral route is contraindicated due to oral surgery or altered consciousness, the rectal method is preferred for the most accurate body temperature reading. This method is particularly useful when the skin is flushed and warm, as it provides a reliable reflection of core body temperature despite external factors affecting the skin temperature. Axillary temperature may not be as accurate as rectal temperature due to variations caused by environmental factors and technique. Arterial line temperature monitoring is invasive and not typically used for routine temperature assessment.

3. A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has a pulmonary embolism. Which of the following information should the healthcare professional not expect to find?

• A. Bradypnea
• B. Pleural friction rub
• C. Petechiae
• D. Tachycardia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a client with a pulmonary embolism, bradypnea, which is abnormally slow breathing, is not an expected finding. Pulmonary embolism typically presents with tachypnea (rapid breathing) due to the body's compensatory mechanism to increase oxygen levels. Pleural friction rub, petechiae, and tachycardia are commonly associated with a pulmonary embolism due to the impaired oxygenation and increased workload on the heart. Therefore, the healthcare professional should not expect to find bradypnea during the assessment of a client with a pulmonary embolism.

4. A client has global aphasia affecting both receptive and expressive language abilities. Which intervention should NOT be included in the client's care plan?

• A. Speak to the client at a slower rate.
• B. Assist the client in using flash cards with pictures.
• C. Speak to the client in a loud voice.
• D. Give instructions one step at a time.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Individuals with global aphasia have difficulty understanding and expressing language. Speaking loudly may not improve comprehension and can be perceived as aggressive. Therefore, it is important not to speak loudly to a client with global aphasia. Speaking at a slower rate, using visual aids like flash cards, and breaking down instructions into simple steps can facilitate communication and understanding for the client.

5. A client has had a cast applied, and a nurse is providing care. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Place an ice pack over the cast.
• B. Palpate the pulse distal to the cast.
• C. Teach the client to keep the cast clean and dry.
• D. Position the casted extremity on a pillow.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When caring for a client with a newly applied cast, the nurse's priority should be to assess the circulation by palpating the pulse distal to the cast. This is crucial to ensure there is no compromise in blood flow, which could lead to serious complications. Placing an ice pack over the cast, teaching the client about cast care, and positioning the casted extremity on a pillow are important interventions but should follow the assessment of circulation.

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