Nursing Elites

1. A client with a diagnosis of coronary artery disease is receiving atorvastatin (Lipitor). Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor to evaluate the effectiveness of this medication?

• A. Complete blood count (CBC)
• B. Serum potassium level
• C. Liver function tests (LFTs)
• D. Serum cholesterol level

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To evaluate the effectiveness of atorvastatin (Lipitor), the nurse should monitor liver function tests (LFTs) (C) because this medication can impact liver function. Complete blood count (CBC) (A), serum potassium level (B), and serum cholesterol level (D) are not directly indicative of the medication's effectiveness in managing coronary artery disease.

2. What information should the nurse offer a client who uses herbal therapies to supplement their diet and manage common ailments about the general use of herbal supplements?

• A. Most herbs are toxic or carcinogenic and should only be used when proven effective.
• B. There is no evidence that herbs are safe or effective compared to conventional supplements in maintaining health.
• C. Herbs should be obtained from manufacturers with a history of quality control for their supplements.
• D. Herbal therapies may mask the symptoms of serious diseases, requiring frequent medical evaluations during use.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: It is essential for clients using herbal therapies to obtain herbs from manufacturers with a history of quality control for their supplements. This recommendation is crucial because quality control processes help in maintaining the purity and effectiveness of the herbal supplements. Option A is incorrect as it provides a negative and inaccurate generalization about herbs. Option B is also incorrect as there is existing evidence on the safety and efficacy of certain herbal supplements. Option D is not the most relevant information to offer initially to a client seeking advice on the general use of herbal supplements.

3. When assisting an older client who can stand but not ambulate from the bed to a chair, what is the best action for the nurse to implement?

• A. Use a mechanical lift to transfer the client from the bed to a chair.
• B. Place a roller board under the client who is sitting on the side of the bed and slide the client to the chair.
• C. Lift the client out of bed to the chair with another staff member using a coordinated effort on the count of three.
• D. Place a transfer belt around the client, assist the client to stand, and pivot to a chair that is placed at a right angle to the bed.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The best action for the nurse when assisting an older client who can stand but not ambulate from the bed to a chair is to use a transfer belt. Placing a transfer belt around the client, assisting the client to stand, and pivoting to a chair that is placed at a right angle to the bed allows for a safe and controlled transfer. This method promotes patient independence while ensuring safety during the transfer process. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because using a mechanical lift may not be necessary for a client who can stand, using a roller board may not provide enough stability, and lifting the client with the help of another staff member may not be the safest option for the client's independence and safety.

4. While the nurse is discharging an adult woman who was hospitalized for 6 days for treatment of pneumonia and reviewing the prescribed medications, the client appears anxious. What action is most important for the nurse to implement?

• A. Instruct the client to repeat the medication plan
• B. Encourage the client to take a PRN antianxiety drug
• C. Provide written instructions that are easy to follow
• D. Include a family member in the teaching session

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this situation, the most important action for the nurse to implement is to instruct the client to repeat the medication plan. By using the teach-back method, the nurse can ensure the client's understanding of the prescribed medications and address any concerns or anxieties the client may have. This approach promotes patient engagement, active participation, and retention of important information, ultimately enhancing medication adherence and safety.

5. What action should be implemented to prevent the formation of a sacral ulcer for an immobile client?

• A. Maintain the client in a lateral position using protective wrist and vest restraints.
• B. Position the client prone with a small pillow below the diaphragm.
• C. Raise the head and knee gatch when lying in a supine position.
• D. Transfer the client to a wheelchair close to the nursing station for observation.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Positioning the client prone with a small pillow below the diaphragm helps maintain proper alignment and provides optimal pressure relief over the sacral area, reducing the risk of developing a pressure ulcer. This position redistributes pressure away from bony prominences, such as the sacrum, which is crucial in preventing ulcer formation in immobile clients. Choice A is incorrect because using restraints can lead to further complications and does not address pressure relief. Choice C is incorrect as raising the head and knee gatch in a supine position does not directly alleviate pressure over the sacrum. Choice D is incorrect as transferring to a wheelchair does not address pressure relief or optimal positioning to prevent sacral ulcers.

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