Nursing Elites

1. A client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) has an elevated blood glucose level. Which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Stop the TPN infusion.
• B. Administer insulin as prescribed.
• C. Notify the healthcare provider.
• D. Check the TPN infusion rate.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct first action for a client receiving TPN with an elevated blood glucose level is to check the TPN infusion rate. Elevated blood glucose levels in clients receiving TPN can be due to incorrect infusion rates leading to increased glucose delivery. By checking the TPN infusion rate, the nurse can verify if the rate is appropriate and make necessary adjustments. Stopping the TPN infusion abruptly could lead to complications from sudden nutrient deprivation. Administering insulin as prescribed may be necessary but should come after ensuring the correct TPN infusion rate. Notifying the healthcare provider is important but addressing the immediate need to check the infusion rate takes priority to manage hyperglycemia effectively.

2. Which client has the highest risk for developing community-acquired pneumonia?

• A. a 40-year-old first-grade teacher who works with underprivileged children
• B. a 75-year-old retired secretary with exercise-induced wheezing
• C. a 60-year-old homeless person who is an alcoholic and smokes
• D. a 35-year-old aerobics instructor who skips meals and eats only vegetables

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, a 60-year-old homeless person who is an alcoholic and smokes. This client has the highest risk of developing community-acquired pneumonia due to multiple factors such as homelessness, substance abuse, and smoking. Homelessness can lead to poor living conditions and limited access to healthcare, increasing susceptibility to infections. Alcoholism and smoking weaken the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to respiratory infections like pneumonia. Choices A, B, and D do not present the same level of risk factors for pneumonia compared to choice C.

3. A client with a history of coronary artery disease is admitted with chest pain. Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention?

• A. Heart rate of 90 beats per minute.
• B. Respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute.
• C. Blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg.
• D. Chest pain radiating to the left arm.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Chest pain radiating to the left arm is a classic symptom of a myocardial infarction (heart attack) in individuals with coronary artery disease. This finding indicates that the heart muscle may not be receiving adequate oxygen, which requires immediate intervention to prevent further damage or complications. The other assessment findings (heart rate of 90 beats per minute, respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute, blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg) are within normal limits and do not suggest an acute, life-threatening condition like myocardial infarction.

4. The healthcare provider is assessing a client who has just returned from hemodialysis. Which finding requires immediate intervention?

• A. Weight gain of 2 pounds.
• B. Dizziness.
• C. Blood pressure of 150/90 mm Hg.
• D. Heart rate of 88 beats per minute.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Dizziness after hemodialysis can indicate hypovolemia, hypotension, or other complications that require immediate intervention to prevent further deterioration or adverse events. Weight gain of 2 pounds may not be immediately concerning post-hemodialysis. A blood pressure of 150/90 mm Hg is slightly elevated but may not require immediate intervention unless accompanied by symptoms. A heart rate of 88 beats per minute falls within the normal range and may not be an immediate cause for concern after hemodialysis.

5. The nurse is preparing to administer a scheduled dose of digoxin (Lanoxin) to a client. Which assessment finding should the nurse report to the healthcare provider?

• A. Heart rate of 90 beats per minute.
• B. Serum potassium level of 4.0 mEq/L.
• C. Blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg.
• D. Client reports seeing halos around lights.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Seeing halos around lights is a symptom of digoxin toxicity, which should be reported to the healthcare provider. This visual disturbance is a serious adverse effect of digoxin and indicates potential toxicity. Reporting this finding promptly is crucial to prevent further complications. Choices A, B, and C are within normal limits and do not indicate an immediate need for intervention related to digoxin administration.

Similar Questions