Nursing Elites

1. A client with a history of atrial fibrillation is prescribed warfarin (Coumadin). Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor closely?

• A. Prothrombin time (PT)
• B. Hemoglobin level
• C. International Normalized Ratio (INR)
• D. Serum sodium level

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, International Normalized Ratio (INR). The INR should be closely monitored in a client prescribed warfarin (Coumadin) to assess the effectiveness and safety of anticoagulation therapy. Monitoring the INR helps ensure that the client is within the therapeutic range for anticoagulation, reducing the risk of bleeding or clotting complications. Prothrombin time (A) is used to calculate the INR and monitor the effectiveness of warfarin therapy. Hemoglobin level (B) is important but not the primary lab value to monitor when a client is on warfarin. Serum sodium level (D) is not directly related to monitoring warfarin therapy.

2. A client presents to the labor and delivery unit, screaming 'THE BABY IS COMING.' Which action should the nurse implement first?

• A. Observe the perineum
• B. Prepare the delivery room
• C. Call the obstetrician
• D. Administer pain relief

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Observing the perineum is the priority action for the nurse in this situation. It allows the nurse to assess the stage of labor, determine the urgency of the situation, and provide immediate assistance if the baby is indeed about to be delivered. Preparing the delivery room and calling the obstetrician can follow once the nurse has assessed the situation. Administering pain relief may not be the immediate priority when the baby is coming.

3. A client with newly diagnosed hypertension is being taught about lifestyle modifications by a nurse. Which client statement indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. ‘I will reduce my salt intake to help manage my blood pressure.’
• B. ‘I will start exercising regularly to help control my blood pressure.’
• C. ‘I will avoid drinking alcohol to help manage my blood pressure.’
• D. ‘I will limit my caffeine intake to help control my blood pressure.’

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Limiting caffeine intake is a positive lifestyle modification for managing hypertension. The statement indicates that the client understands the importance of reducing caffeine intake. Choices A, B, and C all reflect appropriate lifestyle modifications for managing hypertension, indicating good understanding by the client.

4. The nurse observes an adolescent client preparing to administer a prescribed corticosteroid medication using a metered dose inhaler. What action should the nurse take?

• A. Remind the client to hold their breath after inhaling the medication
• B. Confirm that the client has correctly shaken the inhaler
• C. Affirm that the client has correctly positioned the inhaler
• D. Ask the client if they have a spacer to use for this medication

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Reminding the client to hold their breath after inhaling the medication is crucial as it helps ensure the medication is absorbed into the lungs. Option B is incorrect because shaking the inhaler is not directly related to the client's inhalation technique. Option C is incorrect as correct positioning of the inhaler is important but not the immediate action needed in this situation. Option D is incorrect as asking about the spacer is not the most relevant action to take at this moment.

5. The nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a thyroidectomy. Which assessment finding is most concerning?

• A. Slight difficulty swallowing
• B. Hoarse voice
• C. Positive Chvostek's sign
• D. Pain at the incision site

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A positive Chvostek's sign is the most concerning assessment finding as it suggests hypocalcemia, which is a potential complication following thyroidectomy. Hypocalcemia can lead to serious complications such as tetany and laryngospasm. Immediate intervention is required to prevent further complications. Choices A, B, and D are common post-thyroidectomy findings and are expected during the immediate postoperative period. Slight difficulty swallowing may be due to postoperative swelling, a hoarse voice may be temporary due to intubation trauma, and pain at the incision site is normal after surgery.

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