Nursing Elites

1. A client with acute pancreatitis is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor closely?

• A. Serum potassium
• B. Serum glucose
• C. Serum triglycerides
• D. Serum calcium

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a client with acute pancreatitis receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN), the nurse should monitor serum triglycerides closely. Acute pancreatitis can lead to fat malabsorption, making the client susceptible to hypertriglyceridemia. Monitoring serum triglycerides is crucial to prevent complications such as hyperlipidemia. While monitoring serum potassium, glucose, and calcium levels is also essential in various conditions, in this scenario, the primary concern is the risk of developing hypertriglyceridemia due to fat malabsorption.

2. In caring for a client with a PCA infusion of morphine sulfate through the right cephalic vein, the nurse assesses that the client is lethargic with a blood pressure of 90/60 mm Hg, a pulse rate of 118 beats per minute, and a respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute. What assessment should the nurse perform next?

• A. Note the appearance and patency of the client's peripheral IV site.
• B. Palpate the volume of the client's right radial pulse.
• C. Auscultate the client's breath sounds bilaterally.
• D. Observe the amount and dose of morphine in the PCA pump syringe.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the client is presenting with signs of potential opioid overdose, such as lethargy, hypotension, tachycardia, and bradypnea. The next assessment the nurse should perform is to observe the amount and dose of morphine in the PCA pump syringe. This evaluation is crucial in determining if the client is receiving an excessive amount of morphine, leading to the observed symptoms. Checking the PCA pump syringe will provide essential information to address the client's condition promptly and prevent further complications. Choices A, B, and C are not the priority in this situation as they do not directly address the potential cause of the client's symptoms related to morphine administration.

3. While assisting a male client with muscular dystrophy (MD) to the bathroom, the nurse observes that he is awkward and clumsy. When he expresses his frustration and complains of hip discomfort, which intervention should the nurse implement?

• A. Place a portable toilet next to the bed.
• B. Assist the client with walking exercises.
• C. Provide pain medication as prescribed.
• D. Apply a heating pad to the affected hip.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Placing a portable toilet next to the bed is the most appropriate intervention in this situation. It reduces the need for the client to walk long distances, thereby preventing falls and reducing discomfort. Choice B, assisting with walking exercises, would not be suitable for a client with muscular dystrophy who is experiencing awkwardness and clumsiness. Choice C, providing pain medication, may address the symptom but does not directly address the issue of reducing the need for walking. Choice D, applying a heating pad, may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue of mobility and fall prevention.

4. A client who recently underwent a tracheostomy is being prepared for discharge to home. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to include in the discharge plan?

• A. Explain how to use communication tools.
• B. Teach tracheal suctioning techniques.
• C. Encourage self-care and independence.
• D. Demonstrate how to clean the tracheostomy site.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most important instruction for a client who recently underwent a tracheostomy is to teach tracheal suctioning techniques. Suctioning helps clear secretions and maintain an open airway, which is critical for the client's respiratory function and overall well-being. While communication tools, self-care, and cleaning the tracheostomy site are important aspects of care, ensuring proper suctioning techniques is crucial for preventing complications and ensuring the client's safety.

5. A nurse is caring for a client with Diabetes Insipidus. Which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?

• A. Hypernatremia
• B. Excessive thirst
• C. Elevated heart rate
• D. Poor skin turgor

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypernatremia. In a client with Diabetes Insipidus, hypernatremia, an elevated sodium level in the blood, can lead to neurological symptoms such as confusion, seizures, or coma. Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent these serious complications. Excessive thirst (choice B) is a common symptom of Diabetes Insipidus but does not require immediate intervention. Elevated heart rate (choice C) and poor skin turgor (choice D) are important assessments but are not as critical as hypernatremia in this context.

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