Nursing Elites

1. A client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is prescribed heparin. What lab value should the nurse monitor to assess the effectiveness of the therapy?

• A. Prothrombin time (PT).
• B. Partial thromboplastin time (PTT).
• C. International Normalized Ratio (INR).
• D. Hemoglobin and hematocrit.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Partial thromboplastin time (PTT). PTT is the lab value used to monitor the effectiveness of heparin therapy in clients with DVT. It measures the intrinsic pathway of coagulation and is prolonged by heparin therapy. Prothrombin time (PT) and International Normalized Ratio (INR) are primarily used to monitor warfarin therapy, not heparin. Checking hemoglobin and hematocrit levels is important but does not directly assess the effectiveness of heparin therapy in DVT.

2. The nurse leading a medical-surgical unit care team assigns client care to a PN and a UAP. Which task should the nurse delegate to the UAP?

• A. Assess a client's pain level post-surgery
• B. Turn and reposition a client with a total hip replacement
• C. Administer a dose of insulin per sliding scale
• D. Change a postoperative dressing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Turning and repositioning a client is within the scope of practice of a UAP. This task helps prevent pressure ulcers and assists in maintaining the client's comfort and mobility. Assessing pain level post-surgery requires clinical judgment and interpretation, making it appropriate for a PN or RN. Administering medication like insulin involves critical thinking and potential adjustments based on the client's condition, which is the responsibility of a licensed nurse. Changing postoperative dressings involves wound assessment, infection control, and knowledge of aseptic techniques, tasks that fall under the purview of a PN or RN.

3. A client is admitted with a suspected bowel obstruction. What assessment finding should the nurse report immediately?

• A. Absent bowel sounds in all quadrants.
• B. Distended abdomen with a firm, rigid feel.
• C. Frequent episodes of nausea and vomiting.
• D. Hyperactive bowel sounds and abdominal cramping.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A distended abdomen with a firm, rigid feel is a concerning sign that suggests a complication such as bowel perforation, which requires immediate intervention. Absent bowel sounds can be expected in bowel obstructions but are not as urgent as a rigid abdomen. Frequent episodes of nausea and vomiting are common with bowel obstructions but do not indicate an immediate life-threatening complication. Hyperactive bowel sounds and abdominal cramping are more indicative of bowel obstruction rather than a complication requiring immediate attention.

4. A client receiving IV heparin reports abdominal pain and tarry stools. What is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Prepare to administer protamine sulfate.
• B. Continue the heparin infusion and notify the healthcare provider.
• C. Monitor the client's vital signs and assess abdominal pain.
• D. Administer a PRN dose of morphine sulfate.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to prepare to administer protamine sulfate. Abdominal pain and tarry stools are indicative of gastrointestinal bleeding, a serious side effect of heparin therapy. Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin and is used to reverse its effects in cases of bleeding. Continuing the heparin infusion (Choice B) is not appropriate when the client is experiencing signs of bleeding. Monitoring vital signs and assessing abdominal pain (Choice C) is important but not the priority when immediate action is required to address potential bleeding. Administering morphine sulfate (Choice D) is not the priority in this situation; addressing the underlying cause of bleeding takes precedence.

5. A client presents to the clinic with a large abscess on the right thigh. The healthcare provider incises and drains the abscess. Which instruction should the nurse provide to the client upon discharge?

• A. Avoid showering until the wound is completely closed
• B. Perform daily wound care and dressing changes
• C. Apply heat to the wound for 15 minutes twice a day
• D. Take the prescribed antibiotic until the wound is fully healed

Correct answer: B

Rationale: After incision and drainage of an abscess, it is crucial to perform daily wound care and dressing changes to prevent infection and promote healing. Avoiding showering until the wound is completely closed (choice A) may not be practical or necessary. Applying heat to the wound (choice C) can increase the risk of infection and delay healing. While taking the prescribed antibiotic (choice D) is important, wound care and dressing changes are more directly related to promoting healing and preventing complications.

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