Nursing Elites

1. A client is receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer. Which laboratory value would be most important for the nurse to monitor?

• A. White blood cell count
• B. Hemoglobin level
• C. Serum creatinine
• D. Blood glucose level

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor the white blood cell count. Chemotherapy can lead to neutropenia, which is a decrease in white blood cells, particularly neutrophils. Neutropenia increases the risk of infections, making it crucial to monitor the white blood cell count during chemotherapy. Monitoring hemoglobin level is important but not as critical as white blood cell count in this scenario. Serum creatinine and blood glucose levels are not directly impacted by chemotherapy for breast cancer, making them less relevant to monitor in this situation.

2. A client appears upset about the IV catheter insertion but does not communicate it to the nurse after being informed about the prescribed IV fluids. Which of the following is an appropriate nursing response?

• A. Ignore the client’s discomfort
• B. Reassure the client without addressing concerns
• C. Is there something about this procedure that concerns you?
• D. Proceed with the procedure

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The appropriate nursing response in this situation is to ask the client if there are any concerns about the procedure. By doing so, the nurse acknowledges the client's distress and opens up a dialogue to address any anxieties or misconceptions. Option A is incorrect as ignoring the client’s discomfort can lead to increased anxiety and potential harm. Option B is not ideal as reassuring the client without addressing specific concerns may not alleviate the client's distress. Option D is incorrect because proceeding with the procedure without addressing the client's unspoken concerns can further escalate the client's distress.

3. When assisting an 82-year-old client to ambulate, it is important for the LPN/LVN to realize that the center of gravity for an elderly person is in the

• A. Arms.
• B. Upper torso.
• C. Head.
• D. Feet.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Upper torso.' In elderly individuals, the center of gravity tends to shift upwards towards the upper torso due to various factors such as changes in posture and muscle strength. Understanding this is crucial for safe ambulation as it helps in maintaining balance and stability. Choices A, 'Arms,' C, 'Head,' and D, 'Feet,' are incorrect. The center of gravity is not typically located in the arms, head, or feet. It is higher up in the body, specifically in the upper torso. Knowing the correct location of the center of gravity is essential for assisting elderly clients in ambulation effectively and preventing falls.

4. A client has just returned from surgery with an indwelling urinary catheter in place. What is the most important action for the nurse to take to prevent infection?

• A. Change the catheter every 72 hours.
• B. Ensure the catheter tubing is free of kinks.
• C. Clean the perineal area with antiseptic solution daily.
• D. Irrigate the catheter with normal saline every shift.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most crucial action to prevent infection in a client with an indwelling urinary catheter is to ensure the catheter tubing is free of kinks. Kinks in the tubing can lead to urine retention or obstruction, increasing the risk of infection. Changing the catheter every 72 hours is not necessary if there are no signs of infection or other issues. Cleaning the perineal area with antiseptic solution daily is important for hygiene but not the most critical action to prevent infection related to the catheter. Irrigating the catheter with normal saline every shift is not a routine practice and may increase the risk of introducing pathogens into the urinary system.

5. A nurse is counseling an older adult who describes having difficulty with several issues. Which of the following problems verbalized by the client should the nurse identify as the priority?

• A. “I spent my whole life dreaming about retirement, and now I wish I had my job back.”
• B. “It’s been so stressful for me to have to depend on my child to help around the house.”
• C. “I just heard my friend Al die. That’s the third one in 3 months.”
• D. “I keep forgetting which medications I have taken during the day.”

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The statement expressing the loss of friends is the priority issue as it indicates potential grief and emotional distress. Losing multiple friends within a short period can have a profound impact on an older adult's emotional well-being. Option A expresses regret but does not indicate an immediate emotional crisis. Option B focuses on stress related to dependence, which is important but not as urgent as coping with loss. Option D highlights a memory concern, which is significant but does not address the emotional impact of loss.

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