Nursing Elites

1. A client who has an indwelling catheter reports a need to urinate. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Check the catheter to see whether it is patent.
• B. Reassure the client that it is not possible for them to urinate.
• C. Re-catheterize the bladder with a larger-gauge catheter.
• D. Collect a urine specimen for analysis.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a client with an indwelling catheter reports a need to urinate, the nurse's initial action should be to check the catheter for patency. This is crucial to ensure that the catheter is not blocked, twisted, or kinked, which could lead to urinary retention. Reassuring the client without assessing the catheter could delay necessary interventions. Re-catheterizing the bladder with a larger-gauge catheter should not be the first step unless catheter patency is confirmed as an issue. Collecting a urine specimen for analysis is important but not the immediate priority when the client reports a need to urinate.

2. A nurse is evaluating a client’s use of a cane. What is the correct use?

• A. Client holds the cane on the stronger side of the body.
• B. Client holds the cane on the weaker side of the body.
• C. Client holds the cane in front of the weaker side of the body.
• D. Client holds the cane in front of the stronger side of the body.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct way to use a cane is for the client to hold it on the stronger side of the body. This positioning allows the cane to provide support to the weaker side, assisting with balance and stability. Placing the cane on the weaker side (Choice B) may not provide adequate support and could lead to an increased risk of falls. Holding the cane in front of the weaker side (Choice C) or in front of the stronger side (Choice D) does not optimize the support and stability needed while walking with a cane.

3. During an abdominal examination, a nurse in a provider’s office determines that a client has abdominal distention. The protrusion is at midline, the skin over the area is taut, and the nurse notes no involvement of the flanks. Which of the following possible causes of distention should the nurse suspect?

• A. Fat
• B. Fluid
• C. Flatus
• D. Hernias

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Hernias.' Abdominal distention with a midline protrusion, taut skin, and no involvement of the flanks is characteristic of hernias. Hernias are caused by a weakness in the abdominal wall, allowing organs or tissues to protrude through. Fluid accumulation (ascites) typically presents with a more generalized distention, while fat accumulation may cause more diffuse distension rather than a focal midline protrusion. Flatus, or gas, would not typically present with a visible midline protrusion and taut skin like hernias.

4. When planning to perform passive range-of-motion exercises for a client, what action should a healthcare professional take?

• A. Repeat each joint motion five times during each session.
• B. Perform the exercises quickly to save time.
• C. Focus only on the most affected joints.
• D. Assess the client's range of motion before starting.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to repeat each joint motion five times during each session. Repetition is crucial to maintaining joint flexibility and muscle function. By ensuring each joint motion is repeated, the client can benefit fully from the passive range-of-motion exercises. Choice B is incorrect because quick performance may compromise technique and risk injury. Choice C is incorrect as neglecting less affected joints can lead to imbalances and hinder overall progress. Choice D is incorrect as assessing the client's range of motion beforehand is vital, but it is not the immediate action to take during the exercise session.

5. A client who had a stroke requires assistance with morning ADLs. Which of the following interprofessional team members should the nurse consult?

• A. Registered dietitian.
• B. Occupational therapist.
• C. Speech-language pathologist.
• D. Physical therapist.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Occupational therapist. An occupational therapist specializes in assisting clients with daily living activities, making them crucial for a stroke patient requiring help with morning activities of daily living (ADLs). While a registered dietitian (A) may provide nutritional guidance, a speech-language pathologist (C) focuses on communication and swallowing disorders, and a physical therapist (D) primarily deals with mobility and physical rehabilitation. However, none of these professionals directly address the specific needs related to ADLs following a stroke as effectively as an occupational therapist.

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