Nursing Elites

1. A client with a history of asthma is admitted with shortness of breath. Which finding requires immediate intervention?

• A. Increased respiratory rate.
• B. Absence of breath sounds.
• C. Expiratory wheezes.
• D. Productive cough with green sputum.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Absence of breath sounds. This finding can indicate a pneumothorax or severe asthma exacerbation, both of which require immediate intervention to ensure adequate ventilation and prevent further complications. Increased respiratory rate (choice A) is common in asthma exacerbations but may not always necessitate immediate intervention. Expiratory wheezes (choice C) are typical in asthma and may not always indicate a critical condition. A productive cough with green sputum (choice D) suggests a possible respiratory infection but does not warrant immediate intervention as much as the absence of breath sounds.

2. On a day when the temperature is expected to drop below freezing during the night, the nurse is asked to determine which homeless adults are most in need of the limited spaces available in a shelter. It is most important for which person to be admitted at night?

• A. an adult who was hit by a car 3 weeks ago
• B. a young person with diabetes mellitus
• C. a middle-aged person who has hypertension
• D. an older person who is malnourished

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Malnourished individuals are at higher risk of severe complications from cold exposure due to their weakened immune system and decreased ability to regulate body temperature. This places them at a greater risk of hypothermia and other cold-related conditions, making them the most vulnerable group in need of shelter. Choice A is not the most critical as the injury is from 3 weeks ago and should have received appropriate medical care by now. Choice B, a young person with diabetes mellitus, while vulnerable, can manage their condition with proper medication and care. Choice C, a middle-aged person with hypertension, may need monitoring but is less susceptible to immediate harm from cold exposure compared to a malnourished individual.

3. The healthcare provider is assessing the laboratory results for a client who is admitted with renal failure and osteodystrophy. Which findings are consistent with this client's clinical picture?

• A. Serum potassium of 4.0 mEq/L and total calcium of 9 mg/dL.
• B. White blood cell count of 15,000/mm3.
• C. Serum potassium of 5.5 mEq/L and total calcium of 6 mg/dL.
• D. Hemoglobin of 12 g/dL and phosphorus of 2 mg/dL.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In renal failure and osteodystrophy, there is an alteration in serum electrolyte balance. The correct answer is serum potassium of 5.5 mEq/L and total calcium of 6 mg/dL. Renal failure is associated with hyperkalemia (elevated serum potassium) and hypocalcemia (low total calcium levels). Hyperphosphatemia is also commonly seen in renal failure. Choice A is incorrect as it describes normal levels of serum potassium and total calcium. Choice B is unrelated to the client's condition. Choice D is incorrect as it does not reflect the typical electrolyte imbalances seen in renal failure and osteodystrophy.

4. A nurse is planning a community event to raise awareness about mental health. Which activity should be included to best engage participants?

• A. lectures by mental health professionals
• B. interactive workshops on stress management
• C. distribution of mental health resources
• D. screenings for depression and anxiety

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Interactive workshops on stress management should be included to best engage participants in a community event about mental health. Unlike lectures by mental health professionals, workshops actively involve participants, allowing for interaction and practical skill-building. While distributing mental health resources and providing screenings for depression and anxiety are important components, interactive workshops offer a more engaging and hands-on approach, empowering individuals with skills they can use to manage their mental health effectively.

5. While screening all children in the third grade for head lice, the school nurse observes that one girl has a brownish thickening on her neck. Which action should the nurse take in response to this finding?

• A. review the child's medical folder for a list of allergies
• B. instruct the child's parents to begin treatment
• C. advise the child's parents to obtain a medical evaluation of the child
• D. none of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take is to advise the child's parents to obtain a medical evaluation of the child. This is important because a medical professional needs to properly diagnose and treat the brownish thickening observed on the child's neck. Reviewing the child's medical folder for allergies (Choice A) is not appropriate in this situation as it does not address the specific concern. Instructing the child's parents to begin treatment (Choice B) without a proper diagnosis can be harmful and ineffective. Choosing 'none of the above' (Choice D) is not the best option when a potential health issue is identified; seeking a medical evaluation is the most appropriate course of action.

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