Nursing Elites

1. A nurse caring for a group of clients reviews the electrolyte laboratory results and notes a sodium level of 130 mEq/L on one client's laboratory report. The nurse understands that which client is at highest risk for the development of a sodium value at this level?

• A. The client with renal failure
• B. The client who is taking diuretics
• C. The client with hyperaldosteronism
• D. The client who is taking corticosteroids

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Clients taking diuretics are at risk for hyponatremia due to excessive sodium loss. In this scenario, a sodium level of 130 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia, which is commonly associated with diuretic use. Options A, C, and D are not the highest risk factors for developing low sodium levels in this context. Renal failure, hyperaldosteronism, and corticosteroid use are not directly linked to sodium loss as seen with diuretics.

2. Although there is projected to be a small surplus of nurses by 2030, some states will continue to see nursing shortages. Which of the following is the best explanation for this situation?

• A. Healthcare legislation that impacts nursing salaries in some states
• B. Workforce availability
• C. Aging of the baby boomers, resulting in a younger nursing workforce
• D. Population declines

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The best explanation for the continued nursing shortages in some states despite an overall projected surplus by 2030 is workforce availability. This factor directly impacts the number of nurses available in certain regions. Choice A about healthcare legislation affecting nursing salaries does not directly address the availability of nurses. Choice C is incorrect as the aging of the baby boomers would typically imply an older nursing workforce instead of a younger one. Choice D regarding population declines does not necessarily relate to the availability of nurses in specific states.

3. A nurse is preparing a client for surgery. The client has signed the consent form but tells the nurse that she has reconsidered because she is worried about the pain. Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?

• A. If you have the procedure now, you won't have to deal with pain and disability later.
• B. You'll be fine. You'll receive a prescription for pain medication.
• C. Why didn't you discuss your concerns with your provider?
• D. I understand and it's not too late to change your mind.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The appropriate response acknowledges the client's concern and confirms that they have the right to change their mind.

4. What is a major concern about the health-care system in the United States?

• A. Emphasis on disease prevention
• B. Quality of care
• C. Collaborative care
• D. Reduction in hospital-acquired drug-resistant infections

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The major concern about the health-care system in the United States is the quality of care provided. While disease prevention and collaborative care are important aspects, the primary focus of concern is ensuring that the care delivered meets high standards in terms of effectiveness, safety, and patient outcomes. Reduction in hospital-acquired drug-resistant infections, although relevant, is not the primary concern when evaluating the overall quality of healthcare services.

5. A nurse is caring for a client who is unconscious and whose partner is their health care surrogate. The partner wishes to discontinue the client's feeding tube, but another family member tells the nurse that they want the client to continue receiving treatment. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• A. You should contact the provider about your wishes for your family member.
• B. We'll need to have the nursing supervisor review the client's advance directives.
• C. You should speak with the facility's ethics committee about your concerns.
• D. As the health care surrogate, the client's partner can make this decision.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct response is D because the health care surrogate, as designated by the client, has the legal authority to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the client when they are unable to do so. This authority includes decisions about treatment continuation or withdrawal. Option A is incorrect as the family member's wishes do not override the legal authority of the health care surrogate. Option B is not the most appropriate action in this situation as the advance directives are already clear by the designation of a health care surrogate. Option C is not necessary at this stage since the health care surrogate can make the decision without involving the ethics committee.

Similar Questions