Nursing Elites

1. A client has a tracheostomy tube in place. When the nurse suctions the client, food particles are noted. What action by the nurse is best?

• A. Elevate the head of the client's bed.
• B. Measure and compare cuff pressures.
• C. Place the client on NPO status.
• D. Request a swallow study for the client.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When food particles are noted during suctioning of a client with a tracheostomy tube, it can indicate tracheomalacia due to constant pressure from the tracheostomy cuff. This condition may lead to dilation of the tracheal passage. To address this issue, the nurse should measure and compare cuff pressures. By monitoring these pressures and comparing them to previous readings, the nurse can identify trends and potential complications. Elevating the head of the bed, placing the client on NPO status, and requesting a swallow study will not directly address the cuff pressure issue causing food particles in the secretions.

2. A client is planning to perform nasotracheal suction for a client who has COPD and an artificial airway. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Perform suctioning for up to four passes.
• B. Apply suction to the catheter when advancing it into the trachea.
• C. Preoxygenate the client with 100% oxygen for up to 3 min.
• D. Limit each suction pass to 25 seconds.

Correct answer: C

Rationale:

3. A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has a fracture of the femur. Vital signs are obtained on admission and again in 2 hours. Which of the following changes in assessment should indicate to the healthcare professional that the client could be developing a serious complication?

• A. Increased respiratory rate from 18 to 44/min
• B. Increased oral temperature from 36.6° C (97.8° F) to 37° C (98.6° F)
• C. Increased blood pressure from 112/68 to 120/72 mm Hg
• D. Increased heart rate from 68 to 72/min

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An increased respiratory rate from 18 to 44/min is a significant change that should alert the healthcare professional to a potential serious complication. Such a drastic increase in respiratory rate may indicate respiratory distress or hypoxia, which are critical conditions requiring immediate attention. The other options show minor changes in vital signs that are within normal limits and are less likely to indicate a serious complication.

4. What information should be included as effective for preventing chronic bronchitis in a community presentation?

• A. Maintenance of ideal weight
• B. Annual influenza immunization
• C. Smoking cessation
• D. Regular moderate exercise

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Chronic bronchitis is often linked to smoking. Smoking cessation is the most effective preventive measure to reduce the risk of developing chronic bronchitis. Smoking damages the airways and leads to inflammation, making individuals more susceptible to chronic bronchitis. While maintaining an ideal weight, getting an annual influenza vaccine, and engaging in regular moderate exercise are beneficial for overall health, the most crucial intervention to prevent chronic bronchitis is quitting smoking.

5. When caring for a client with acute renal failure, which laboratory value is most important to monitor?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In acute renal failure, monitoring serum potassium is crucial because impaired kidney function can lead to hyperkalemia, which can result in life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias. Elevated potassium levels need close monitoring and prompt interventions to prevent serious complications.

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