Nursing Elites

1. A new head nurse on a unit is distressed about the poor staffing on the 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. shift. What should she do?

• A. Complain to her fellow nurses
• B. Wait until she knows more about the unit
• C. Discuss the problem with her supervisor
• D. Inform the staff that they must volunteer to rotate

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the new head nurse should discuss the problem with her supervisor. This is the most appropriate action as the supervisor is in a position to address staffing concerns effectively and make necessary changes. Complaining to fellow nurses may not lead to a solution, waiting may exacerbate the issue, and demanding staff rotation without proper discussion is not a collaborative approach to resolving the problem.

2. The healthcare professional is preparing to take vital signs in an alert client admitted to the hospital with dehydration secondary to vomiting and diarrhea. What is the best method used to assess the client’s temperature?

• A. Oral
• B. Axillary
• C. Radial
• D. Heat-sensitive tape

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most accurate method for assessing temperature in an alert client is the oral method. It provides a more reliable reflection of the body's core temperature compared to axillary or radial methods. In cases of dehydration, it is important to get an accurate temperature reading to monitor the client's condition closely. Axillary temperature may be affected by environmental factors, while radial temperature measurement is not a standard method for assessing core body temperature. Heat-sensitive tape is not a recognized method for assessing body temperature in clinical practice.

3. A client with COPD expresses concerns about leaving the house due to continuous oxygen use. What is an appropriate response by the nurse?

• A. There are portable oxygen delivery systems that you can take with you.
• B. When you go out, you can remove the oxygen and then reapply it when you get home.
• C. You probably will not be able to go out as much as you used to.
• D. Home health services will come to see you so you will not need to get out.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: For a client with COPD concerned about leaving the house while on continuous oxygen, the nurse should provide reassurance by mentioning the availability of portable oxygen delivery systems. These systems allow the client to maintain their oxygen therapy while being mobile, enabling them to go out and engage in activities outside the home. This response promotes independence and quality of life for the client, addressing their immediate concerns and offering a practical solution to their perceived limitation.

4. A client has had a cast applied, and a nurse is providing care. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Place an ice pack over the cast.
• B. Palpate the pulse distal to the cast.
• C. Teach the client to keep the cast clean and dry.
• D. Position the casted extremity on a pillow.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When caring for a client with a newly applied cast, the nurse's priority should be to assess the circulation by palpating the pulse distal to the cast. This is crucial to ensure there is no compromise in blood flow, which could lead to serious complications. Placing an ice pack over the cast, teaching the client about cast care, and positioning the casted extremity on a pillow are important interventions but should follow the assessment of circulation.

5. What is the meaning of PRN?

• A. When advice
• B. Immediately
• C. When necessary
• D. Now

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct meaning of PRN is 'when necessary.' The abbreviation 'PRN' comes from the Latin term 'pro re nata,' which is commonly used in medical contexts to indicate that a medication should be taken as needed, not at scheduled intervals. Choice A ('When advice') is incorrect as PRN does not refer to seeking advice. Choice B ('Immediately') is incorrect as PRN does not imply urgency. Choice D ('Now') is incorrect as PRN does not mean 'immediate' but rather 'as needed.' Therefore, the correct answer is C, 'When necessary.'

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