Nursing Elites

1. A client with a fractured femur is in Buck's traction. The nurse should assess for which of the following complications?

• A. Foot drop
• B. Urinary retention
• C. Constipation
• D. Muscle spasms

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Foot drop is a potential complication of prolonged immobility and improper positioning in traction. In Buck's traction, the lower extremity is suspended to immobilize and align the fractured femur. Prolonged suspension of the leg in traction can lead to nerve damage, specifically to the common peroneal nerve, resulting in foot drop. Urinary retention, constipation, and muscle spasms are not directly associated with Buck's traction and a fractured femur.

2. A client with asthma has low-pitched wheezes present on the final half of exhalation. One hour later the client has high-pitched wheezes extending throughout exhalation. This change in assessment indicates to the nurse that the client

• A. Has increased airway obstruction
• B. Has improved airway obstruction
• C. Needs to be suctioned
• D. Exhibits hyperventilation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Has increased airway obstruction.' High-pitched wheezes extending throughout exhalation indicate a worsening airway obstruction, leading to increased resistance in the airways. Low-pitched wheezes present on the final half of exhalation may suggest some level of obstruction, but the change to high-pitched wheezes throughout exhalation indicates a progression in the obstruction. Choice B is incorrect as the change in wheeze characteristics signifies deterioration rather than improvement. Choice C is incorrect as suctioning is not indicated based on the wheeze assessment findings. Choice D is incorrect as hyperventilation does not typically present with wheezes and is not supported by the information provided.

3. The client with Raynaud's phenomenon would benefit most by which teaching intervention?

• A. Stop smoking
• B. Keep feet dry
• C. Reduce stress
• D. Avoid caffeine

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Stop smoking. Smoking causes vasoconstriction, worsening the symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon. Quitting smoking is crucial in managing this condition effectively. Choices B, C, and D are not as directly related to the pathophysiology of Raynaud's phenomenon. While keeping feet dry and reducing stress can be beneficial for overall health, they are not as directly linked to managing Raynaud's phenomenon as smoking cessation.

4. Which of the following tools is used by community health nurses to identify the health needs of a population?

• A. Health survey
• B. Medical records
• C. Patient interviews
• D. Epidemiological studies

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Epidemiological studies are used by community health nurses to identify the health needs of a population. These studies involve investigating patterns, causes, and effects of health and disease conditions in defined populations. While health surveys, medical records, and patient interviews are valuable tools in healthcare, epidemiological studies provide a broader population-based perspective essential for understanding and addressing community health needs.

5. When the nurse identifies what appears to be ventricular tachycardia on the cardiac monitor of a client being evaluated for possible myocardial infarction, the first action the nurse should perform is to

• A. Begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation
• B. Prepare for immediate defibrillation
• C. Notify the 'Code' team and healthcare provider
• D. Assess airway, breathing, and circulation

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct first action for the nurse to take when identifying what appears to be ventricular tachycardia in a client being evaluated for possible myocardial infarction is to assess the client's airway, breathing, and circulation. This step is crucial to determine the client's stability and the need for immediate intervention. Beginning cardiopulmonary resuscitation or preparing for immediate defibrillation without first assessing the airway, breathing, and circulation could delay potentially life-saving interventions. Notifying the 'Code' team and healthcare provider should come after ensuring the client's immediate needs are addressed.

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