Nursing Elites

1. A client returns from surgery with a sigmoid colostomy. An ostomy appliance is attached. The priority nursing diagnosis for daily observation and care is:

• A. Diarrhea related to alteration in bowel elimination.
• B. Impaired skin integrity related to seepage.
• C. Impaired nutrition: More than body requirements related to high-fat diet.
• D. Impaired physical mobility related to surgical procedure.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Impaired skin integrity would be the priority nursing diagnosis for daily care of the colostomy because the effluent from the colostomy can be irritating to the skin. Diarrhea isn't a concern at this point. The client will be allowed nothing by mouth until peristalsis returns. The client should get out of bed on the first postoperative day, so mobility shouldn't be a problem.

2. The nurse would assess the client experiencing an acute episode of cholecystitis for pain that is located in the right:

• A. Upper quadrant and radiates to the left scapula and shoulder
• B. Upper quadrant and radiates to the right scapula and shoulder
• C. Lower quadrant and radiates to the umbilicus
• D. Lower quadrant and radiates to the back

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Pain from cholecystitis is typically located in the right upper quadrant and may radiate to the right scapula and shoulder.

3. When counseling a client in ways to prevent cholecystitis, which of the following guidelines is most important?

• A. Eat a low-protein diet
• B. Eat a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet
• C. Limit exercise to 10 minutes/day
• D. Keep weight proportionate to height

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Eating a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet is most important for preventing cholecystitis.

4. To accurately assess for jaundice in a patient with dark skin pigmentation, the nurse should examine which body areas?

• A. Nail beds
• B. Skin on the back of the hand
• C. Hard palate of the mouth
• D. Soles of the feet

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To accurately assess for jaundice in a patient with dark skin pigmentation, the nurse should examine the hard palate of the mouth. Jaundice is best assessed in the sclera; however, in dark-skinned patients, normal yellow pigmentation may be present in the sclera, making it difficult to detect jaundice. Inspection of the hard palate for a yellow color can confirm the presence of jaundice. Cyanosis is best observed in the nail beds, not indicative of jaundice. While skin on the palm of the hand can indicate jaundice, the back of the hand is not a typical area for assessment. Jaundice can be assessed on the soles of the feet in dark-skinned patients, but it is better visualized in the hard palate for accurate evaluation.

5. Leigh Ann is receiving pancrelipase (Viokase) for chronic pancreatitis. Which observation best indicates the treatment is effective?

• A. There is no skin breakdown.
• B. Her appetite improves.
• C. She loses more than 10 lbs.
• D. Stools are less fatty and decreased in frequency.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The effectiveness of pancrelipase (Viokase) for chronic pancreatitis is best indicated by stools being less fatty and decreased in frequency.

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