Nursing Elites

1. A male Native American presents to the clinic with complaints of frequent abdominal cramping and nausea. He states that he has chronic constipation and had not had a bowel movement in five days, despite trying several home remedies. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?

• A. Evaluate the stool samples for the presence of blood
• B. Assess for the presence of an impaction
• C. Determine which home remedies were used
• D. Obtain a list of prescribed medications

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Assessing for impaction is crucial as it is a common cause of constipation and abdominal discomfort. In this scenario, the patient's symptoms of chronic constipation and no bowel movement for five days despite trying home remedies indicate a potential impaction that needs to be assessed. Evaluating stool samples for blood, determining the home remedies used, or obtaining a list of prescribed medications, while potentially relevant, are not as urgent as assessing for impaction in this situation.

2. A healthcare professional is measuring vital signs for a client and notices an irregularity in the pulse. Which of the following actions should the healthcare professional take?

• A. Count the apical pulse rate for 1 full minute, and describe the rhythm in the chart.
• B. Recheck the pulse at the same site after 5 minutes.
• C. Measure the client’s blood pressure.
• D. Record the irregularity and continue with other vital signs.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When an irregular pulse is detected, it is essential to count the apical pulse rate for a full minute to accurately determine the rhythm. This ensures a comprehensive assessment and helps in identifying any potential issues or abnormalities. Rechecking the pulse at the same site after 5 minutes (Choice B) may not provide an immediate understanding of the irregularity. Measuring the client's blood pressure (Choice C) is important but not directly related to addressing the irregular pulse. Recording the irregularity and continuing with other vital signs (Choice D) may overlook a potentially serious cardiac issue that requires immediate attention.

3. A healthcare provider is preparing to provide hygiene care. Which principle should the provider consider when planning hygiene care?

• A. Hygiene care is not performed in the same way by all individuals.
• B. No two individuals perform hygiene in the same manner.
• C. Standardizing a patient's hygienic practices is crucial.
• D. Understanding patient needs is not essential during hygiene care.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'No two individuals perform hygiene in the same manner.' It is crucial to individualize a patient's care based on understanding the patient's unique hygiene practices and preferences. Choice A is incorrect because hygiene care should be tailored to the individual's needs and preferences, not seen as routine and expected for everyone. Choice C is incorrect as standardizing a patient's hygienic practices may not address their specific needs. Choice D is incorrect because understanding patient needs is essential during hygiene care to provide personalized and effective care.

4. A nurse is providing teaching to an older adult client about home safety. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

• A. “Keep a nightlight on in the bathroom”
• B. “Set room temperature to 68 degrees Fahrenheit”
• C. “Place throw rugs over electrical cords”
• D. “Use chairs without armrests”

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Keep a nightlight on in the bathroom.' This safety measure is crucial for older adults to prevent falls by enhancing visibility during nighttime bathroom visits. Choice B is incorrect because setting the room temperature to 68 degrees Fahrenheit may not be universally suitable for all older adults, as individual preferences vary. Choice C is incorrect as placing throw rugs over electrical cords poses a tripping hazard rather than enhancing safety. Choice D is incorrect as using chairs without armrests may not provide adequate support and stability for older adults, increasing the risk of falls.

5. Which goal is most appropriate for a patient who has had a total hip replacement?

• A. The patient will ambulate briskly on the treadmill by the time of discharge.
• B. The patient will walk 100 feet using a walker by the time of discharge.
• C. The nurse will assist the patient to ambulate in the hall 2 times a day.
• D. The patient will ambulate by the time of discharge.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The goal 'The patient will walk 100 feet using a walker by the time of discharge' is the most appropriate goal for a patient who has had a total hip replacement because it is specific, measurable, achievable, and individualized. This goal sets a clear target for the patient's mobility progress post-surgery. Choice A is too vague and does not provide a specific target distance or method of ambulation. Choice C focuses on the nurse's actions rather than the patient's progress. Choice D lacks specificity in terms of distance or assistance required, making it less measurable and individualized compared to Choice B.

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