Nursing Elites

1. A client with end-stage heart failure who is awaiting a transplant appears depressed and states, 'I know a transplant is my last chance, but I don't want to become a vegetable.' How should the nurse respond?

• A. Would you like information about advance directives?
• B. I will arrange for a psychiatrist to speak with you.
• C. Do you want to come off the transplant list?
• D. Would you like to speak with a priest or chaplain?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The client is expressing a fear of negative outcomes related to the transplant. By offering information about advance directives, the nurse allows the client to discuss concerns and preferences for end-of-life care. This response shows empathy, acknowledges the client's autonomy, and addresses the client's fears while providing support and information.

2. A client with a mediastinal chest tube is being assessed by a nurse. Which symptoms require the nurse's immediate intervention? (SATA)

• A. Production of pink sputum
• B. Tracheal deviation
• C. Pain at insertion site
• D. Sudden onset of shortness of breath

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Immediate intervention is necessary when a client with a mediastinal chest tube exhibits tracheal deviation since it may indicate a tension pneumothorax. This condition requires prompt attention to prevent serious complications. While the production of pink sputum and pain at the insertion site should be monitored and reported, they do not typically require immediate intervention. Sudden onset of shortness of breath could indicate various issues related to the chest tube but is not as critical as tracheal deviation in this context.

3. During an admission assessment of a client with COPD and emphysema complaining of a frequent productive cough and shortness of breath, what assessment finding should the nurse anticipate?

• A. Respiratory alkalosis
• B. Increased anteroposterior diameter of the chest
• C. Oxygen saturation level 96%
• D. Petechiae on chest

Correct answer: B

Rationale: COPD and emphysema are chronic respiratory conditions that can lead to changes in the shape of the chest. In clients with COPD, the anteroposterior diameter of the chest often increases, giving a barrel chest appearance. This change in chest shape is due to hyperinflation of the lungs and is a common physical finding in clients with COPD and emphysema. The other options are not typically associated with COPD and emphysema. Respiratory alkalosis is not a common finding in these clients. An oxygen saturation level of 96% is within the normal range and does not specifically relate to COPD. Petechiae on the chest are not typically associated with COPD or emphysema.

4. A post-anesthesia care unit nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a thoracotomy and lobectomy. Which of the following postoperative assessments should the nurse give the highest priority to?

• A. Arterial blood gases
• B. Urinary output
• C. Chest tube drainage
• D. Pain level

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Arterial blood gases are crucial to assess postoperatively in a client who has undergone thoracotomy and lobectomy to monitor oxygenation and ventilation status. Changes in arterial blood gases can indicate respiratory complications or inadequate gas exchange, which are critical issues that need prompt intervention to prevent further complications. While urinary output, chest tube drainage, and pain level are important assessments, monitoring arterial blood gases takes precedence in this specific postoperative scenario to ensure optimal respiratory function and overall patient well-being.

5. When admitting a client with active tuberculosis to a room on a medical-surgical unit, which of the following room assignments should the nurse make?

• A. A room with air exhaust directly to the outdoor environment
• B. A room with another nonsurgical client
• C. A room in the ICU
• D. A room that is within view of the nurses' station

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When admitting a client with active tuberculosis, it is crucial to assign them to a room with air exhaust directly to the outdoor environment to prevent the spread of infectious particles to other patients and healthcare workers. This setup helps in reducing the risk of transmission within the healthcare facility. Placing the client in a room with another nonsurgical client or in the ICU may increase the chances of spreading the infection. Additionally, placing the client in a room within view of the nurses' station does not address the need for proper ventilation to minimize transmission of tuberculosis.

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