Nursing Elites

1. A client's blood pressure reading is 156/94 mm Hg. Which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Inform the client that the blood pressure is high and that the reading needs to be verified by another nurse.
• B. Contact the healthcare provider to report the reading and obtain a prescription for an antihypertensive medication.
• C. Replace the cuff with a larger one to ensure a proper fit for the client and increase arm comfort.
• D. Compare the current reading with the client's previously documented blood pressure readings.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take first in this situation is to compare the current blood pressure reading with the client's previously documented readings. This comparison will provide valuable information about what is normal for this specific client, helping to determine if the current reading represents a significant change or if it falls within the client's usual range. By reviewing the client's past readings, the nurse can assess trends, variations, and if the current reading is an isolated high value or part of a pattern, guiding appropriate decision-making. Informing the client about the high reading (Choice A) or contacting the healthcare provider for medication (Choice B) should come after assessing the client's history. Replacing the cuff (Choice C) is not necessary at this point and does not address the immediate need to compare the readings for appropriate intervention.

2. A client who is a Jehovah's Witness is admitted to the nursing unit. Which concern should the nurse have for planning care in terms of the client's beliefs?

• A. Autopsy of the body is prohibited.
• B. Blood transfusions are forbidden.
• C. Alcohol use in any form is not allowed.
• D. A vegetarian diet must be followed.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. In the Jehovah's Witness religion, blood transfusions are forbidden due to their beliefs. Autopsy prohibition is in Judaism, while alcohol and drug use is not allowed in Buddhism. While some sects are vegetarian, the critical concern in nursing care for Jehovah's Witnesses is respecting their prohibition of blood transfusions.

3. A high school senior is complaining of a persistent cough and admits to smoking 10 to 15 cigarettes daily for the past year. He is convinced that he is hopelessly addicted to tobacco since he tried unsuccessfully to quit smoking last week. Which intervention is best for the nurse to implement?

• A. Encourage the student to associate with non-smokers only while attempting to stop smoking.
• B. Tell the student that he is still young and should continue trying various smoking cessation methods.
• C. Describe cigarette smoking as a habit that requires a strong will to overcome its addictiveness.
• D. Provide the student with the latest research data describing the long-term effects of tobacco use.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Adolescents are particularly influenced by peers, so associating with non-smokers may help the student quit smoking. By being surrounded by non-smokers, the student is less likely to feel pressured to smoke and may be encouraged to adopt healthier behaviors. This intervention leverages the power of social influence to support smoking cessation efforts and create a more conducive environment for the student to quit smoking. Choices B, C, and D do not address the social aspect of smoking behavior and the influence of peers on smoking habits, making them less effective interventions in this case.

4. Which intervention is most important to include in the plan of care for a client at high risk for the development of postoperative thrombus formation?

• A. Instruct the client in the use of the incentive spirometer.
• B. Elevate the head of the bed during all meals.
• C. Use aseptic technique when changing the dressing.
• D. Encourage frequent ambulation in the hallway.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Thrombus formation is a risk for clients who are immobile postoperatively. Encouraging frequent ambulation helps to prevent stasis in the lower extremities, reducing the risk of thrombus formation. This intervention promotes circulation and prevents blood clot formation, making it the most important intervention in this situation.

5. The healthcare provider is providing passive range of motion (ROM) exercises to the hip and knee for a client who is unconscious. After supporting the client's knee with one hand, what action should the healthcare provider take next?

• A. Raise the bed to a comfortable working level.
• B. Bend the client's knee.
• C. Move the knee toward the chest as far as it will go.
• D. Cradle the client's heel.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When providing passive ROM exercises to the hip and knee for an unconscious client, it is essential to support the joints of the knee and ankle. The next action should be to cradle the client's heel and gently move the limb in a slow, smooth, firm, but gentle manner. This helps maintain joint mobility and prevent contractures.

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