Nursing Elites

1. A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a client who reports diarrhea and decreased urination for 4 days. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to assess the client's skin turgor?

• A. Grasp a skin fold on the chest under the clavicle, release it, and note whether it springs back
• B. Pinch the skin on the back of the hand and observe for elasticity
• C. Assess the skin turgor on the abdomen by pinching the skin
• D. Check the skin turgor by pressing on the forearm and observing the rebound

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To assess skin turgor, the nurse should grasp a skin fold on the chest under the clavicle, release it, and note whether it springs back. This method is preferred for older adults and in cases of significant fluid imbalance. Option B is incorrect as assessing skin turgor on the back of the hand is not the standard assessment site for skin turgor. Option C is incorrect as the abdomen is not the typical area for assessing skin turgor; the chest under the clavicle is a more accurate site. Option D is incorrect as pressing on the forearm is not the appropriate site for evaluating skin turgor; the chest under the clavicle is the recommended location for this assessment.

2. The nurse is providing care for a client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor closely to assess for complications?

• A. Serum potassium
• B. Blood glucose
• C. Serum sodium
• D. Serum calcium

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Blood glucose. When caring for a client receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN), monitoring blood glucose levels is essential due to the increased risk of hyperglycemia associated with TPN infusion. Elevated blood glucose levels can lead to complications such as hyperglycemia, which can be harmful to the client. While monitoring serum potassium (Choice A), serum sodium (Choice C), and serum calcium (Choice D) are also important aspects of care, when specifically considering TPN administration, blood glucose monitoring takes precedence due to the potential for significant complications related to glucose imbalances.

3. A client with a tracheostomy is being taught by a nurse and their family how to care for the tracheostomy at home. Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Use tracheostomy covers when outdoors.
• B. Clean the tracheostomy with alcohol.
• C. Replace the tracheostomy tube every week.
• D. Cover the tracheostomy with a wet cloth when sleeping.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Using tracheostomy covers when outdoors is essential to protect the tracheostomy from dust and debris, reducing the risk of infection. Tracheostomy covers help maintain cleanliness and prevent foreign particles from entering the stoma. Choice B is incorrect because cleaning the tracheostomy with alcohol can be too harsh and drying for the skin surrounding the stoma, leading to skin irritation. Choice C is incorrect as tracheostomy tubes are typically replaced only when clinically indicated or as per the healthcare provider's instructions, not routinely every week, to prevent unnecessary risks and complications. Choice D is incorrect as covering the tracheostomy with a wet cloth when sleeping can create a moist environment ideal for bacterial growth, increasing the risk of infection and skin breakdown. It is important to keep the tracheostomy site clean, dry, and protected to maintain optimal hygiene and prevent complications.

4. The mother of a 2 year-old hospitalized child asks the nurse's advice about the child's screaming every time the mother gets ready to leave the hospital room. What is the best response by the nurse?

• A. I think you or your partner needs to stay with the child while in the hospital.
• B. Oh, that behavior will stop in a few days.
• C. Keep in mind that for the age this is a normal response to being in the hospital.
• D. You might want to 'sneak out' of the room once the child falls asleep.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should reassure the mother that the child's behavior is normal for their age and situation.

5. A client is scheduled for an appendectomy and has given informed consent. Which statement by the client should the nurse address first preoperatively?

• A. “I am afraid to walk if it hurts too much.”
• B. “I don’t understand why I need this surgery.”
• C. “I don’t want my family helping me after the surgery.”
• D. “I am afraid the scar will make me look disfigured.”

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The nurse should address the client's lack of understanding regarding the need for surgery first. Ensuring that the client comprehends the rationale for the procedure is essential for informed consent. Choices A, C, and D, while important, do not directly impact the client's understanding of the necessity of the surgery and can be addressed after clarifying the reason for the procedure.

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