Nursing Elites

1. A client who is unstable and requires frequent vital signs has an electronic blood pressure machine automatically measuring his blood pressure every 15 min. However, the machine is reading the client’s blood pressure at more frequent intervals, and the readings are not similar. The nurse checks the machine settings and observes the additional readings, but the problem continues. Which of the following is the appropriate nursing action?

• A. Notify the manufacturer
• B. Disconnect the machine, and measure the blood pressure manually every 15 min
• C. Adjust the machine settings again
• D. Ignore the extra readings

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct action in this scenario is to disconnect the electronic blood pressure machine and measure the client's blood pressure manually every 15 minutes. Given that the machine is malfunctioning and providing inconsistent readings, relying on manual measurements ensures accuracy and maintains the quality of care. Notifying the manufacturer (Choice A) may be necessary in the long run, but the immediate concern is the accuracy of the vital signs. Adjusting the machine settings again (Choice C) without resolving the underlying issue would not address the problem. Ignoring the extra readings (Choice D) could lead to incorrect assessment and compromise patient care. Therefore, the best course of action is to disconnect the machine and opt for manual blood pressure measurements until the issue is resolved.

2. A client with a history of diabetes mellitus is experiencing polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia. What is the most important action for the LPN/LVN to take?

• A. Monitor the client's blood glucose level.
• B. Encourage the client to increase fluid intake.
• C. Administer insulin as prescribed.
• D. Assess the client's urine output.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most important action for the LPN/LVN to take when a client with a history of diabetes mellitus experiences symptoms of hyperglycemia such as polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia is to monitor the client's blood glucose level. This action helps assess the severity of hyperglycemia and guides further interventions. Encouraging the client to increase fluid intake (Choice B) may exacerbate the symptoms by further diluting the blood glucose concentration. Administering insulin as prescribed (Choice C) should be done based on the healthcare provider's orders and after assessing the blood glucose levels. Assessing the client's urine output (Choice D) is important but not the most immediate action needed in this scenario.

3. A client postoperative expresses pain during dressing changes. What should the nurse prioritize?

• A. Administer pain medication 45 minutes before changing the client’s dressing.
• B. Change the dressing less frequently.
• C. Apply a topical anesthetic before removing the dressing.
• D. Use a non-adherent dressing to reduce pain.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering pain medication before changing the dressing is the priority action as it will help alleviate the client's pain and improve comfort. Choice B, changing the dressing less frequently, may hinder proper wound care and healing. Applying a topical anesthetic (choice C) might offer some relief but systemic pain medication is more effective. Using a non-adherent dressing (choice D) can reduce pain during dressing changes, but addressing immediate pain with medication is the most appropriate intervention in this case.

4. A client who has a new prescription for warfarin (Coumadin) is receiving discharge teaching from a nurse. Which of the following statements indicates that the client understands the teaching?

• A. I will take my warfarin at the same time every day.
• B. I should use a soft-bristled toothbrush while taking this medication.
• C. I should take my warfarin at bedtime.
• D. I should avoid eating foods high in vitamin K while taking this medication.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Taking warfarin at the same time every day is essential to maintain a consistent blood level of the medication. This statement indicates that the client understands the teaching about the importance of consistency in medication timing. Choice B, regarding using a soft-bristled toothbrush, is not directly related to warfarin therapy and does not assess the client's understanding of warfarin administration. Choice C suggesting taking warfarin at bedtime is incorrect; it is generally recommended to take warfarin at the same time each day to avoid variations in drug levels. Choice D about avoiding foods high in vitamin K is relevant as vitamin K can interfere with warfarin's anticoagulant effects. However, it is not the best indicator of understanding the teaching on medication timing, which is crucial for warfarin efficacy.

5. While measuring a client’s vital signs, the nurse notices an irregularity in the heart rate. Which nursing action is appropriate?

• A. Count the apical pulse rate for 1 full minute, and describe the rhythm in the chart
• B. Measure the blood pressure
• C. Perform an ECG
• D. Recheck the heart rate after 5 minutes

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The appropriate nursing action when an irregularity in the heart rate is observed is to count the apical pulse rate for a full minute and describe the rhythm in the chart. This approach helps in obtaining an accurate assessment of the irregularities present. Measuring the blood pressure (Choice B) is important but not the immediate priority when an irregular heart rate is noted. Performing an ECG (Choice C) may be necessary but is a more advanced intervention that should follow the initial assessment. Rechecking the heart rate after 5 minutes (Choice D) may delay potential interventions for addressing the irregularity, making it less appropriate than the immediate assessment and documentation of the pulse rhythm.

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