Nursing Elites

1. A client who is receiving heparin therapy has an activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) of 90 seconds. What action should the nurse take?

• A. Increase the heparin infusion rate.
• B. Notify the healthcare provider.
• C. Apply pressure to the injection site.
• D. Administer protamine sulfate.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) of 90 seconds is elevated, indicating a risk of bleeding. The appropriate action for the nurse is to notify the healthcare provider. Increasing the heparin infusion rate can further elevate the aPTT, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. Applying pressure to the injection site is not relevant in this situation. Administering protamine sulfate is used to reverse the effects of heparin in cases of overdose or bleeding, but it is not the initial action for an elevated aPTT.

2. During an assessment, a healthcare professional suspects a client has cholecystitis. What is a common symptom of this condition?

• A. Right upper quadrant pain
• B. Left lower quadrant pain
• C. Generalized abdominal pain
• D. Epigastric pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Right upper quadrant pain is a hallmark symptom of cholecystitis, indicating inflammation of the gallbladder. The gallbladder is typically located in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, so pain in this area is characteristic of cholecystitis. This pain may be sharp or cramp-like and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fever. Left lower quadrant pain (choice B) is more commonly associated with diverticulitis, generalized abdominal pain (choice C) can be seen in various conditions, and epigastric pain (choice D) is typically related to issues in the upper central part of the abdomen, such as gastritis or peptic ulcers, rather than cholecystitis.

3. A patient who is receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer develops thrombocytopenia. What should the nurse include in the care plan?

• A. Encourage light exercise.
• B. Avoid intramuscular injections.
• C. Do not administer aspirin.
• D. Use a soft toothbrush for oral care.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a low platelet count, which can lead to an increased risk of bleeding. To minimize this risk, patients with thrombocytopenia should avoid activities that can cause injury or bleeding, such as intramuscular injections. Encouraging light exercise can be beneficial, as it promotes circulation without increasing the risk of trauma. However, avoiding intramuscular injections is crucial to prevent bleeding episodes. Aspirin should be avoided as it can further impair platelet function, exacerbating the condition. Using a soft toothbrush for oral care is recommended to prevent gum bleeding in patients with thrombocytopenia.

4. A client with a history of chronic alcohol abuse is at risk for which of the following conditions?

• A. Liver cirrhosis
• B. Renal failure
• C. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• D. Peptic ulcer disease

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to liver cirrhosis due to long-term liver damage. Alcohol consumption over time can cause inflammation and scarring of the liver, eventually leading to cirrhosis. This condition can severely impact liver function and may progress to liver failure if not addressed.

5. A client who participates in a health maintenance organization (HMO) needs a bone marrow transplant for the treatment of breast cancer. The client tells the nurse that she is concerned that her HMO may deny her claim. What action by the nurse best addresses the client's need at this time?

• A. Have the client's healthcare provider write a letter to the HMO explaining the need for the transplant.
• B. Help the client place a call to the HMO to seek information about limitations of coverage.
• C. Encourage the client to contact a lawyer to file a lawsuit against the HMO if necessary.
• D. Have the social worker contact the state board of insurance to register a complaint against the HMO.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The best action for the nurse to take in this situation is to help the client directly contact the HMO to seek information about limitations of coverage. This approach addresses the client's immediate concerns and clarifies the situation, enabling the client to understand the coverage and potential outcomes regarding the bone marrow transplant. Choice A is not the best option as having the healthcare provider write a letter may not provide immediate clarification on coverage. Choice C is inappropriate as legal action should be considered as a last resort, and choice D involving the state board of insurance is not necessary at this initial stage of addressing the client's concern.

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