Nursing Elites

1. A combination multi-drug cocktail is being considered for an asymptomatic HIV-infected client with a CD4 cell count of 500. Which nursing assessment of the client is most crucial in determining whether therapy should be initiated?

• A. Presence of viral symptoms
• B. Engages in high-risk behaviors
• C. Willingness to comply with complex drug schedules
• D. History of opportunistic infections

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most crucial nursing assessment in determining whether therapy should be initiated for an asymptomatic HIV-infected client with a CD4 cell count of 500 is the client's willingness to comply with complex drug schedules. Adherence to antiretroviral therapy is essential for its effectiveness. Assessing the client's willingness and ability to comply with the complex medication regimen is crucial to ensure successful treatment and prevent drug resistance. Choices A, B, and D, although important in the overall care of the client, are not as crucial as assessing the client's willingness to adhere to the prescribed drug regimen.

2. A client in labor is experiencing late decelerations in fetal heart rate. What intervention should the nurse perform first?

• A. Reposition the client onto her left side.
• B. Apply oxygen via nasal cannula.
• C. Prepare for an emergency cesarean section.
• D. Increase IV fluid administration to improve perfusion.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Late decelerations indicate fetal distress due to compromised placental perfusion. Repositioning the client onto her left side is the priority intervention as it can increase blood flow to the placenta, improving fetal oxygenation. Applying oxygen via nasal cannula (choice B) can be the next step after repositioning if late decelerations persist. Emergency cesarean section (choice C) is not the initial action for late decelerations unless other interventions are ineffective. Increasing IV fluid administration (choice D) is not the first-line intervention for late decelerations; repositioning takes precedence to address the underlying cause.

3. A client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). What should the nurse monitor for?

• A. Monitor for signs of liver toxicity.
• B. Assess for gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea or diarrhea.
• C. Monitor for signs of infection, such as fever or sore throat.
• D. Administer DMARDs with meals to prevent gastrointestinal upset.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Correct Answer: Monitoring for signs of infection, such as fever or sore throat, is crucial when a client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). DMARDs can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. Early detection of infections allows for prompt treatment and helps prevent complications. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because while liver toxicity and gastrointestinal side effects are possible side effects of DMARDs, monitoring for signs of infection takes priority due to the increased risk of infections associated with these medications.

4. A toddler presenting with a history of intermittent skin rashes, hives, abdominal pain, and vomiting that occurs after ingesting milk products arrives at the clinic accompanied by the parents. Which type of testing should the nurse educate the toddler's family about?

• A. Complete blood count
• B. Lactose tolerance test
• C. Skin allergy testing
• D. Serum immunoglobulin E

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) testing. This test can help diagnose food allergies, including milk protein allergies, in toddlers presenting with symptoms like skin rashes, hives, abdominal pain, and vomiting after consuming milk products. Skin allergy testing is used for allergies but may not be suitable for this age group due to developmental factors. Lactose intolerance, which is different from a milk allergy, is assessed through a lactose tolerance test, not IgE testing. A complete blood count (CBC) would not provide specific information related to food allergies.

5. A client with multiple sclerosis is admitted with an acute exacerbation. What is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Monitor the client’s vital signs every hour.
• B. Assess for changes in the client’s muscle strength.
• C. Administer prescribed corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
• D. Educate the client on managing fatigue and preventing relapses.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Administering prescribed corticosteroids to reduce inflammation is the priority action when a client with multiple sclerosis is admitted with an acute exacerbation. Corticosteroids help manage symptoms during exacerbations and reduce inflammation. Monitoring vital signs and assessing muscle strength are important aspects of care but not the priority during an acute exacerbation. Educating the client on managing fatigue and preventing relapses is essential but can be addressed after the acute exacerbation has been managed.

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