Nursing Elites

1. A client with chronic stable angina is prescribed nitroglycerin (Nitrostat) for chest pain. The nurse should include which instruction when teaching the client about this medication?

• A. Take nitroglycerin at the first sign of chest pain.
• B. Swallow the tablet whole with water.
• C. Take nitroglycerin with meals to prevent stomach upset.
• D. Store nitroglycerin in a cool, dry place.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction when teaching a client about nitroglycerin (Nitrostat) is to take it at the first sign of chest pain. Nitroglycerin works rapidly to dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow to the heart muscle. Taking it promptly can help alleviate symptoms quickly and prevent the condition from worsening. Choice B is incorrect because nitroglycerin is usually taken sublingually (under the tongue) and not swallowed. Choice C is incorrect because nitroglycerin is not typically taken with meals. Choice D is incorrect because nitroglycerin should be stored in its original container away from heat and light.

2. A client with a history of coronary artery disease (CAD) is being discharged after angioplasty. Which instruction should the LPN/LVN reinforce to the client?

• A. You should report any chest pain or discomfort to your health care provider.
• B. Avoid all physical activity for the next 2 weeks.
• C. Return to work immediately after discharge.
• D. Take aspirin only if you experience chest pain.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction to reinforce is to 'Report any chest pain or discomfort to your health care provider.' This is crucial because chest pain post-angioplasty can indicate complications that need immediate attention. Choice A is incorrect because returning to work immediately may not be advisable after angioplasty, as the client needs time to recover. Choice B is incorrect because avoiding all physical activity for 2 weeks may not be necessary; instead, gradual resumption of activities is usually recommended. Choice D is incorrect because aspirin should be taken as prescribed by the healthcare provider, not just when chest pain occurs.

3. After returning the client to bed following a cardiac catheterization procedure with the left femoral vessel as the access site, the nurse places a sign above the bed instructing the client to remain on bed rest and in which position?

• A. In semi-Fowler's position
• B. With the head of the bed elevated 45 degrees
• C. With the head of the bed elevated no more than 15 degrees
• D. With the foot of the bed elevated as much as tolerated by the client

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After cardiac catheterization via the femoral vessel, it is crucial to keep the head of the bed elevated no more than 15 degrees to prevent bleeding at the access site. This position helps maintain pressure on the femoral artery, reducing the risk of bleeding and complications post-procedure. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not provide the necessary pressure on the femoral artery to prevent bleeding, which is essential after a cardiac catheterization procedure with a femoral access site.

4. The client at risk for thrombophlebitis receives reinforcement from the LPN/LVN regarding measures to minimize its occurrence. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of this information?

• A. I should avoid sitting for prolonged periods.
• B. I will take frequent walks and avoid prolonged bed rest.
• C. I should drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• D. I will use compression stockings as advised by my doctor.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Taking frequent walks and avoiding prolonged bed rest are essential measures to promote circulation and reduce the risk of thrombophlebitis. Physical activity helps prevent blood from pooling and clotting in the veins, thus decreasing the likelihood of thrombophlebitis development. Choice A is incorrect because while avoiding prolonged sitting is important, it is not as effective as engaging in physical activity. Choice C is not directly related to preventing thrombophlebitis. Choice D, using compression stockings, is a helpful measure but not as effective as regular physical activity in preventing thrombophlebitis.

5. The client is reinforcing instructions for a low-sodium diet. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I will avoid adding salt to my food while cooking.
• B. I will use salt substitutes instead of regular salt.
• C. I can eat as much processed food as I like since it's usually low in sodium.
• D. I will read food labels to check for sodium content.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Processed foods often contain high amounts of sodium, so they should be limited or avoided on a low-sodium diet. Choosing processed foods can lead to increased sodium intake, counteracting the purpose of following a low-sodium diet. Option A shows an understanding of avoiding added salt, Option B suggests using alternatives to regular salt, and Option D indicates a willingness to check food labels for sodium content, all of which are appropriate for a low-sodium diet. Therefore, the client's statement about eating processed foods freely is incorrect and requires further teaching.

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