Nursing Elites

1. A 70-year-old man has a blood pressure of 150/90 mm Hg in a lying position, 130/80 mm Hg in a sitting position, and 100/60 mm Hg in a standing position. How should the nurse evaluate these findings?

• A. These readings are a normal response and attributable to changes in the patient's position.
• B. The change in blood pressure readings is called orthostatic hypotension.
• C. The blood pressure reading in the lying position is within normal limits.
• D. The change in blood pressure readings is considered within normal limits for the patient's age.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is, 'The change in blood pressure readings is called orthostatic hypotension.' Orthostatic hypotension is defined as a drop in systolic pressure of �20 mm Hg or �10 mm Hg drop in diastolic pressure that occurs with a quick change to a standing position. This condition is common in individuals on prolonged bed rest, older adults, those with hypovolemia, or taking specific medications. The blood pressure readings provided in the question (150/90 mm Hg lying, 130/80 mm Hg sitting, and 100/60 mm Hg standing) demonstrate a significant change in blood pressure with position changes, which is indicative of orthostatic hypotension. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the readings do not indicate a normal response or blood pressure within normal limits for the patient's age; rather, they suggest the presence of orthostatic hypotension.

2. During a class on religion and spirituality, the nurse is asked to define spirituality. Which statement by the nurse best describes spirituality?

• A. "Is a personal search to discover a supreme being."?
• B. "Is an organized system of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe."?
• C. "Is a belief that each person exists forever in some form, such as a belief in reincarnation or the afterlife."?
• D. "Focuses on a connection with something bigger than oneself and a belief in transcendence."?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Spirituality is a broad term that focuses on a connection with something greater than oneself and a belief in transcendence. It is a personal journey that arises from unique life experiences and the individual's quest to find purpose and meaning in life. The correct answer emphasizes the essence of spirituality, which involves seeking a connection with a higher power and believing in transcendence. Choices A, B, and C, on the other hand, define aspects of religion rather than spirituality. Choice A refers to a personal search for a supreme being, which is more aligned with religious beliefs. Choice B describes an organized system of beliefs about the universe, typically associated with religion. Choice C pertains to beliefs about existence after death, such as reincarnation or the afterlife, which are often religious concepts. Therefore, the best description of spirituality is focusing on a connection with something beyond oneself and a belief in transcendence.

3. Patients have a right to ______________.

• A. only enough information so they can comply with care
• B. ALL of their health-related information
• C. small amounts of information so they do not get nervous
• D. moderate amounts of information unless they are old

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Patients have a legal right to access all of their health-related information. This includes details about their health condition, treatment options, test results, and any other relevant data. Providing patients with all their health-related information empowers them to make informed decisions about their care, promotes transparency in the healthcare process, and respects their autonomy. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they restrict the information patients should receive based on assumptions or limitations, which goes against the principle of patient autonomy and their right to access their complete health-related information.

4. The nurse is preparing to perform a physical assessment. The correct action by the nurse is reflected by which statement?

• A. Performs the examination from both sides of the bed.
• B. Examines tender or painful areas last to help relieve the patient's anxiety.
• C. Follows a flexible examination sequence, considering the patient's age and condition.
• D. Organizes the assessment to ensure that the patient does not change positions too often.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should organize the assessment to minimize the patient's need to change positions frequently, ensuring efficiency and comfort. It is essential to perform the examination from both sides of the bed to facilitate a comprehensive assessment. Examining tender or painful areas last can help reduce patient discomfort and anxiety. The examination sequence should be flexible, taking into account the patient's age, condition, and specific needs. This approach allows for a tailored and patient-centered assessment, optimizing the quality of care provided.

5. During a client interview, which of the following leading questions should the nurse avoid asking?

• A. What medication do you take at home?
• B. You are really excited about the plastic surgery, aren't you?
• C. Were you aware I've had this same type of surgery?
• D. What would you like to talk about?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The nurse should avoid asking leading questions during a client interview as they can influence the client's response. Option B is a leading question as it suggests an expected response from the client, potentially biasing the information provided. This can lead to inaccurate data collection and subsequent errors in diagnostic reasoning. Choices A, C, and D are open-ended questions that encourage the client to provide unbiased information and allow for a more comprehensive assessment.

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