Nursing Elites

1. In planning care for a premature infant with respiratory distress syndrome, nursing actions are based on the fact that the most likely cause of this problem stems from the infant's inability to

• A. Stabilize alveolar surface tension
• B. Maintain alveolar surface tension
• C. Promote normal pulmonary blood flow
• D. Regulate intra-cardiac pressure

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Maintain alveolar surface tension. Respiratory distress syndrome in premature infants is often caused by a deficiency in surfactant, a substance that helps maintain alveolar surface tension. Without adequate surfactant, the alveoli collapse, making it difficult for the infant to oxygenate effectively. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because stabilizing alveolar surface tension is not the issue, promoting normal pulmonary blood flow and regulating intra-cardiac pressure are not directly related to the pathophysiology of respiratory distress syndrome in premature infants.

2. A nurse is reviewing the correct use of a fire extinguisher with a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse direct the client to take first?

• A. Remove the safety pin from the extinguisher.
• B. Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• C. Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.
• D. Sweep the extinguisher from side to side.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct first step in using a fire extinguisher is to remove the safety pin. This action enables the extinguisher to be activated and used effectively. Choice B, aiming the extinguisher at the base of the fire, comes after removing the safety pin. Choice C, squeezing the handle to release the extinguishing agent, and choice D, sweeping the extinguisher from side to side, are subsequent steps in using a fire extinguisher and should follow removing the safety pin.

3. A 73-year-old female client had a hemiarthroplasty of the left hip yesterday due to a fracture resulting from a fall. In reviewing hip precautions with the client, which instruction should the LPN/LVN include in this client's teaching plan?

• A. You will be able to bend at the waist to reach items on the floor in 8 weeks.
• B. Place a pillow between your knees while lying in bed to prevent hip dislocation.
• C. It is safe to use a walker to get out of bed, but you need assistance when walking.
• D. Take pain medication 30 minutes after your physical therapy sessions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction to include in the teaching plan for a client who had a hemiarthroplasty of the left hip is to 'Place a pillow between your knees while lying in bed to prevent hip dislocation.' This technique helps maintain proper hip alignment and prevents dislocation during the postoperative recovery period. Choice A is incorrect because bending at the waist to reach items on the floor can strain the hip joint and is not recommended following hip surgery. Choice C is incorrect because using a walker alone without assistance can increase the risk of falls and injury, especially in the immediate postoperative period. Choice D is incorrect because pain medication should be taken as prescribed by the healthcare provider, not specifically timed after physical therapy sessions.

4. When assessing a client's neurologic system, what should the nurse ask the client to close their eyes and identify?

• A. A word whispered by the nurse 30cm from the ear
• B. A number traced on the palm of the hand
• C. The vibration of a tuning fork placed on the foot
• D. A familiar object placed in the hand

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a nurse asks a client to identify a number traced on the palm of the hand with their eyes closed, it assesses the client's ability to perceive touch sensations. This test specifically evaluates the tactile discrimination of the client. The other options do not test the client's ability to identify sensations accurately with eyes closed. Option A tests auditory perception, option C tests vibratory sense, and option D tests object recognition but not tactile discrimination, making them incorrect choices.

5. A nurse is caring for a postoperative client following knee arthroplasty who requires thigh-high compression sleeves. What should the nurse do?

• A. Make sure two fingers can fit under the sleeve.
• B. Apply the sleeve tightly to prevent blood clots.
• C. Ensure the sleeve is snug and comfortable.
• D. Check that the sleeve is loose enough to avoid constriction.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to make sure two fingers can fit under the sleeve. This allows for proper circulation and ensures that the sleeve is not too tight, which can lead to complications such as impaired blood flow or tissue damage. Choice B is incorrect because applying the sleeve tightly can actually cause harm rather than prevent blood clots. Choice C is incorrect as snugness alone may not guarantee proper fit. Choice D is incorrect as a sleeve that is too loose can be ineffective in providing the necessary compression.

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