Nursing Elites

1. 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.

2. Prior to Mr. Landon undergoing a tracheostomy, what is the top nursing priority?

• A. Shaving the neck.
• B. Establishing a means of communication.
• C. Inserting a Foley catheter.
• D. Starting an IV.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Before Mr. Landon undergoes a tracheostomy, the top nursing priority is to establish a means of communication. This is essential to ensure that Mr. Landon can effectively communicate his needs during and after the procedure. Shaving the neck (Choice A) may be necessary for the tracheostomy but is not the top priority. Inserting a Foley catheter (Choice C) and starting an IV (Choice D) are important nursing interventions but are not the priority before a tracheostomy procedure, where communication is key for patient safety and comfort.

3. One week after being told that she has terminal cancer with a life expectancy of 3 weeks, a female client tells the nurse, 'I think I will plan a big party for all my friends.' How should the nurse respond?

• A. You may not have enough energy before long to hold a big party.
• B. Do you mean to say that you want to plan your funeral and wake?
• C. Planning a party and thinking about all your friends sounds like fun.
• D. You should be thinking about spending your last days with your family.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Setting goals that bring pleasure is appropriate and should be encouraged by the nurse. Choice A is discouraging and focuses on limitations. Choice B jumps to a conclusion and is not in line with the client's statement. Choice D dictates what the client should be doing, which is not respectful of the client's autonomy. Therefore, the most appropriate response is C, as it acknowledges the client's wishes and provides positive reinforcement without perpetuating denial.

4. To avoid nerve injury, what location should the nurse select to administer a 3 mL IM injection?

• A. Ventrogluteal
• B. Outer upper quadrant of the buttock
• C. Two inches below the acromion process
• D. Vastus lateralis

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The ventrogluteal site is the preferred location for administering large volume IM injections to avoid nerve injury. This site is situated away from major nerves and blood vessels, reducing the risk of complications associated with injecting into other areas. The ventrogluteal site allows for deep muscle penetration and is recommended for injections over 2 mL in volume to ensure proper dispersion and absorption of the medication. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the outer upper quadrant of the buttock is not the recommended site for large volume injections, two inches below the acromion process is a location for a deltoid injection, and the vastus lateralis is typically used for smaller volume injections.

5. During the insertion of a nasogastric tube (NGT), the client begins to cough and gag. What action should the healthcare professional take?

• A. Stop advancing the tube and allow the client to rest
• B. Remove the tube and try again after a few minutes
• C. Continue inserting the tube while the client sips water
• D. Withdraw the tube slightly and pause before continuing

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a client begins to cough and gag during the insertion of a nasogastric tube, withdrawing the tube slightly and pausing is the appropriate action. This technique helps prevent further irritation, gives the client a moment to recover, and allows for a smoother continuation of the insertion process. Choice A is incorrect because allowing the client to rest without adjusting the tube position might not address the issue. Choice B is incorrect as removing the tube without addressing the cause of coughing and gagging may lead to repeated discomfort. Choice C is incorrect as continuing to insert the tube while the client is experiencing difficulties can increase discomfort and potential complications.

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