Nursing Elites

1. A client is taking hydrocodone (Vicodin) for chronic back pain. The client has required an increase in the dose and asks whether this means he is addicted to Vicodin. The nurse should base her reply on the knowledge that:

• A. the client's body has developed tolerance, requiring more drug to produce the same effect
• B. the client is preoccupied with getting the drug and is experiencing loss of control, indicating drug dependence
• C. addiction involves psychological behaviors related to substance use, not just physical dependence
• D. the client is coping with chronic back pain and requires adjustments in the medication regimen

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a client requires an increased dose of a drug, such as in this case with hydrocodone, it suggests that the body has developed tolerance to the medication. Tolerance means that the client needs more of the drug to achieve the same effect as before. This does not inherently indicate addiction, which involves psychological behaviors related to substance use. Choice B describes drug dependence, where the client is preoccupied with obtaining the drug and experiences loss of control, which is not the same as tolerance. Choice C correctly points out that addiction is more than just physical dependence with withdrawal symptoms and tolerance; it includes psychological factors. Choice D is irrelevant as it discusses adjusting the medication for pain management, not addressing the client's concern about addiction.

2. A 12-year-old male is brought to his primary care provider to determine whether sexual abuse has occurred. The mother states, 'Because there is no permanent physical damage, he does not need any more treatment.' The nurse's response should be based on which of the following pieces of information?

• A. Male victims of sexual abuse can have long-term psychological problems.
• B. Survivors of male sexual abuse might become confused about their sexual identity.
• C. Unless treated, all male sex abuse survivors grow up to abuse other children.
• D. All children who have been sexually abused have the same needs, regardless of gender.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Male children are sexually abused nearly as often as female children. Perpetrators are usually men but can be women. Needs of male children who have been sexually abused might be different from the needs of female survivors. Male survivors might respond in anger, question their sexuality, use alcohol and other drugs, and might try to prove their masculinity by performing daring acts. It is crucial for the nurse to consider these potential outcomes, making choice B the correct answer. Choice A is incorrect because male victims of sexual abuse can indeed have long-term psychological problems, so the nurse should be aware of this issue. Choice C is incorrect as not all male sex abuse survivors grow up to abuse other children, which is a misconception. Choice D is incorrect because the needs of children who have been sexually abused can vary based on various factors, including gender, so it is important to consider individual differences.

3. When questioning an elder about suspected abuse, how should the nurse keep the questions?

• A. Nonjudgmental.
• B. Probing.
• C. Confrontational.
• D. Indirect.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When questioning an elder about suspected abuse, the nurse should keep the questions nonjudgmental. This approach helps the elder feel safe and more willing to share information. Probing questions might be perceived as invasive, confrontational questions can lead to defensiveness and denial, and indirect questions may not elicit the necessary information, resulting in confusion or misinterpretation.

4. What can the nurse instruct the mother of a teething 9-month-old infant to relieve discomfort?

• A. Rub the infant's gums with baby aspirin dissolved in water.
• B. Obtain an over-the-counter (OTC) topical medication for gum pain relief.
• C. Schedule an appointment with a dentist for a dental evaluation.
• D. Give the infant cool liquids or a Popsicle and hard foods such as dry toast.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Teething in infants can cause discomfort, but it is a normal process. Symptoms may include nighttime awakening, daytime restlessness, excess drooling, and temporary loss of appetite. The recommended approach to relieve teething discomfort includes providing cool liquids, a Popsicle, or hard foods like dry toast for chewing. These items can help soothe the infant's gums. Rubbing the gums with baby aspirin dissolved in water is not recommended as it can be harmful. OTC topical medications are unnecessary for teething discomfort. Scheduling a dental evaluation is not required solely for teething. It's important to avoid home remedies like baby aspirin and opt for safer options like cool liquids. If necessary, acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be used under healthcare provider guidance to alleviate discomfort.

5. What is the primary goal of family education?

• A. symptom reduction
• B. improved quality of life
• C. increased knowledge about mental illness
• D. improved caregiving skills

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary goal of family education is to improve the quality of life. Family education aims to enhance the overall well-being and functioning of both the individual with the condition and their family members. While increased knowledge about mental illness may be a beneficial outcome, it is not the primary objective of family education. Symptom reduction is more commonly associated with psychoeducation rather than family education. Improving caregiving skills is a component of family education, but the primary focus is on improving the quality of life for everyone involved in the caregiving process.

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