Nursing Elites

1. A client describes her cervical mucus as clear, thin, and elastic. Upon examination, the nurse demonstrates that the cervical mucus can be stretched 8-10 cm. The nurse correctly documents the finding as:

• A. increased ferning capacity.
• B. lack of ferning.
• C. spinnbarkheit.
• D. inhospitable.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should document the finding as 'spinnbarkheit.' Spinnbarkheit is the term used to describe the clear, thin, and elastic cervical mucus that can be stretched 8-10 cm, indicating ovulation. It helps couples determine the most fertile period for conception. Ferning capacity or crystallization increases as ovulation approaches, but it requires microscopic examination to be confirmed. Lack of ferning cannot be determined without such examination. 'Inhospitable' cervical mucus refers to patterns that prohibit sperm motility, caused by various factors like hormone levels or infection. These conditions cannot be assessed based solely on the description provided in the question.

2. A client with an ileus is placed on intestinal tube suction. Which of the following electrolytes is lost with intestinal suction?

• A. calcium
• B. magnesium
• C. potassium
• D. sodium chloride

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is sodium chloride. Duodenal intestinal fluid is rich in potassium (K+), sodium (Na+), and bicarbonate. When suctioning is used to remove excess fluids due to ileus, it results in the loss of sodium chloride (NaCl) leading to decreased sodium (Na+) levels. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because calcium, magnesium, and potassium are not typically lost in significant amounts through intestinal tube suction in the context of treating ileus.

3. The nurse is caring for a female client who has recently been diagnosed with cancer and will soon begin chemotherapy. Which of these statements would require additional follow-up and education?

• A. I will be most susceptible to an infection between 7 and 12 days after chemotherapy.
• B. I should try to get my annual teeth cleaning in before beginning chemotherapy.
• C. I should wait until all my hair falls out to purchase a wig.
• D. I should try to drink 8-10 glasses of water a day.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: This client is at risk for altered body image due to chemotherapy-induced hair loss. A wig can assist in coping with this change. It is advisable for the client to shop for a wig before hair loss occurs to better match color and style. Waiting until all hair falls out may lead to stress and limited options in finding a suitable wig. Choices A, B, and D are accurate. Understanding the timing of susceptibility to infection, maintaining oral health before chemotherapy, and staying hydrated are important aspects of care during chemotherapy. Therefore, the statement 'I should wait until all my hair falls out to purchase a wig' requires additional follow-up and education.

4. A 65-year-old female client is experiencing postmenopausal bleeding. Which type of physician should this client be encouraged to see?

• A. a radiologist
• B. a gynecologist
• C. a physiatrist
• D. an oncologist

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A 65-year-old female experiencing postmenopausal bleeding should be encouraged to see a gynecologist. Gynecologists specialize in treating and managing diseases of the female reproductive organs, making them the most appropriate physician for this issue. Postmenopausal bleeding can indicate various gynecological conditions such as endometrial atrophy, endometrial hyperplasia, or endometrial cancer, highlighting the importance of consulting a gynecologist for proper diagnosis and management. Radiologists evaluate X-rays, physiatrists manage rehabilitation teams, and oncologists treat clients with cancer. Therefore, in this case, the symptoms point towards a gynecological problem, emphasizing the necessity of seeking care from a gynecologist.

5. A nurse notes the presence of variable decelerations on the fetal heart rate monitor strip and suspects cord compression. The nurse should immediately perform which action?

• A. Insert a gloved finger into the mother's vagina to feel for cord compression
• B. Position the mother so that her hips are elevated
• C. Notify the registered nurse
• D. Perform a vaginal examination on the mother

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When variable decelerations on the fetal heart rate monitor strip suggest cord compression, the immediate action the nurse should take is to reposition the mother to alleviate the compression. Elevating the mother's hips or changing her position can help shift the fetal presenting part and relieve pressure on the cord. This action aims to improve or resolve the variable decelerations. Contacting the registered nurse may be necessary, but it is not the immediate action required in this situation. Performing a vaginal examination is contraindicated due to the potential risk of further compromising blood flow through the umbilical cord. Inserting a gloved finger into the mother's vagina to feel for the cord is also not recommended as it poses a similar risk of exacerbating the situation.

Similar Questions