Nursing Elites

1. A client returns from surgery with two Penrose drains in place. Anticipating frequent dressing changes, what should the nurse use around the incision site?

• A. Montgomery straps
• B. Sterile gauze
• C. Adhesive tape
• D. Elastic bandages

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Montgomery straps are the correct choice in this scenario. They are specifically designed to secure dressings around drain sites, like Penrose drains, and are ideal for frequent dressing changes. Sterile gauze (Choice B) is commonly used for wound dressings but may not provide the best securement for drains. Adhesive tape (Choice C) can cause skin irritation and may not be suitable for securing drains. Elastic bandages (Choice D) are typically used for compression or support but are not appropriate for securing dressings around drain sites.

2. The nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has been prescribed warfarin (Coumadin). Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I will avoid eating foods high in vitamin K.
• B. I will take my medication at the same time every day.
• C. I will use a soft toothbrush to prevent gum bleeding.
• D. I can take aspirin if I have a headache.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'I can take aspirin if I have a headache.' This statement indicates a need for further teaching because aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding in clients taking warfarin. Clients on warfarin therapy should avoid taking aspirin or other medications that increase the risk of bleeding. Choices A, B, and C are correct statements that show understanding of warfarin therapy, such as the importance of avoiding foods high in vitamin K, taking medication consistently, and using a soft toothbrush to prevent gum bleeding.

3. A nurse is caring for a client postoperatively. When the nurse prepares to change the dressing, the client says it hurts. Which intervention is the nurse’s priority action?

• A. Administer pain medication 45 minutes prior to dressing change.
• B. Change the dressing quickly to minimize pain.
• C. Provide reassurance to the client that the pain will pass.
• D. Use a less painful dressing technique.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering pain medication before the dressing change is the priority action to help manage the client's pain effectively. This intervention ensures that the client is comfortable during the procedure. Changing the dressing quickly may cause more discomfort to the client. Providing reassurance is important but does not address the immediate pain concern. Using a less painful dressing technique may be helpful, but administering pain medication first is the priority to address the client's pain promptly.

4. A client with limited mobility in his lower extremities is being cared for by a nurse. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent skin breakdown?

• A. Place the client in high-Fowler's position
• B. Increase the client's intake of carbohydrates
• C. Massage the reddened areas with unscented lotion
• D. Have the client use a trapeze bar when changing positions

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to have the client use a trapeze bar when changing positions. This action helps in repositioning without causing friction or shearing, which can lead to skin breakdown. Placing the client in high-Fowler's position (Choice A) may not directly prevent skin breakdown related to limited mobility. Increasing carbohydrate intake (Choice B) is not relevant to preventing skin breakdown. Massaging reddened areas with lotion (Choice C) can potentially cause more harm by increasing friction and damaging the skin further, rather than preventing breakdown.

5. During a complete bed bath for a client, after removing the gown and placing a bath blanket over the body, which of the following areas should the nurse wash first?

• A. Face
• B. Feet
• C. Chest
• D. Arms

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When performing a complete bed bath, it is essential to wash the face first. Washing the face initially helps to maintain the client's privacy and comfort. Additionally, starting with the face prevents re-contamination of already cleaned areas. Washing the feet first (Choice B) is not ideal as it can lead to potential contamination of the upper body parts. Starting with the chest (Choice C) or arms (Choice D) is not recommended due to the risk of water dripping onto the client's face, causing discomfort and compromising privacy.

Similar Questions