Nursing Elites

1. A male client who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia is withdrawn, isolates himself in the day room, and answers questions with one or two-word responses. This morning, the practical nurse observes that he is diaphoretic and is pacing in the hall. Which intervention is most important for the PN to implement?

• A. Persuade the client to lie down
• B. Provide a drink high in electrolytes
• C. Observe the client during the shift
• D. Measure appropriate vital signs

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Measuring vital signs is crucial in this situation as it helps to determine if the client is experiencing a physical health issue or if the symptoms are related to a mental health crisis, such as anxiety or agitation. The presence of diaphoresis and pacing may indicate physiological changes requiring immediate attention. Providing a drink high in electrolytes or persuading the client to lie down may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms. Simply observing the client during the shift without taking necessary actions to assess his physiological status may delay appropriate intervention.

2. While performing an inspection of a client's fingernails, the PN observes a suspected abnormality of the nail's shape and character. Which finding should the PN document?

• A. Clubbed nails
• B. Splinter hemorrhages
• C. Longitudinal ridges
• D. Koilonychia or spoon nails

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Clubbed nails. Clubbed nails are a significant finding often associated with chronic hypoxia or lung disease. The presence of clubbed nails should be documented for further evaluation. Splinter hemorrhages (Choice B) are tiny areas of bleeding under the nails and are associated with conditions like endocarditis. Longitudinal ridges (Choice C) are common and often a normal finding in older adults. Koilonychia or spoon nails (Choice D) refer to nails that are concave or scooped out, often seen in conditions like iron deficiency anemia or hemochromatosis. These conditions are not typically associated with chronic hypoxia or lung disease, making them less likely findings in this situation.

3. Which statement by a mature adult client with advanced prostate cancer best indicates that he has reached a level of acceptance of his prognosis?

• A. I don't have any use for those who say the disease is going to win
• B. I've found the support I need from my faith and family
• C. I think I've had this disease for a long time, but the doctor did not find it
• D. I understand that this is a disease that occurs mostly in older men

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because finding support in faith and family is a common way for individuals to cope with serious illnesses and come to terms with their prognosis. This statement indicates that the client has found a source of strength and comfort to deal with their situation. Choice A reflects defiance rather than acceptance. Choice C suggests denial or disbelief in the diagnosis. Choice D shows factual knowledge about the disease but does not necessarily indicate acceptance of the prognosis.

4. A female client taking a liquid iron preparation expresses concern that her tooth color has darkened since starting the medication. What action should the PN implement?

• A. Teach the client to use a straw when taking the medication to reduce further tooth staining
• B. Advise the client to withhold further doses until consulting with the healthcare provider
• C. Reassure the client that this change indicates the medication is having the desired effect
• D. Determine if the client is also experiencing mouth or gum pain and difficulty swallowing

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct action for the PN to implement is to teach the client to use a straw when taking the medication to reduce further tooth staining. Using a straw minimizes contact between the iron preparation and the teeth, helping prevent additional staining. Choice B is incorrect because withholding doses without consulting the healthcare provider could be detrimental to the client's health. Choice C is incorrect because darkening of tooth color is not an expected effect of liquid iron preparation and should not be reassured as a desired effect. Choice D is incorrect as it does not directly address the client's concern about tooth staining.

5. The practical nurse is caring for a client whose urine drug screen is positive for cocaine. Which behavior is this client likely to exhibit during cocaine withdrawal?

• A. Elevated energy level
• B. Euphoria
• C. High self-esteem
• D. Powerful craving for more

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Powerful craving for more. During cocaine withdrawal, individuals often experience intense cravings for the drug, along with symptoms such as fatigue, depression, and anxiety. These cravings can be overpowering and lead to a strong desire to seek out more cocaine to alleviate the withdrawal symptoms. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as elevated energy level, euphoria, and high self-esteem are more associated with the effects of cocaine rather than withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal from cocaine is characterized by the opposite, such as fatigue, low mood, and intense cravings.

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