Nursing Elites

1. In the emergency department, a nurse is assessing a client involved in a motor vehicle crash. Findings include absent breath sounds in the left lower lobe with dyspnea, blood pressure 118/68 mm Hg, heart rate 124/min, respirations 38/min, temperature 38.6 C (101.4 F), and SaO2 92% on room air. What action should the nurse take first?

• A. Obtain a chest X-ray.
• B. Prepare for chest tube insertion.
• C. Administer oxygen via high-flow mask.
• D. Initiate IV access.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the client is presenting with signs of respiratory distress, including absent breath sounds, dyspnea, and a low SaO2 level. The priority action should be to improve oxygenation by administering oxygen via a high-flow mask. This intervention aims to increase the oxygen supply to the client's lungs, helping to address the hypoxemia. Once oxygenation is optimized, further interventions, such as obtaining a chest X-ray, preparing for chest tube insertion, or initiating IV access, can be considered based on the client's condition and healthcare provider's orders.

2. The physician orders a platelet count to be performed on Mrs. Smith after breakfast. The nurse is responsible for:

• A. Instructing the patient about this diagnostic test
• B. Writing the order for this test
• C. Giving the patient breakfast
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The nurse's responsibility in this scenario is to instruct the patient about the diagnostic test ordered by the physician. This includes explaining the purpose of the test, any necessary preparations, and what to expect. The nurse is not responsible for writing the order, as this is the physician's role. Additionally, providing breakfast is not directly related to the platelet count test. Therefore, the correct answer is A, which aligns with the nurse's role in educating and supporting the patient regarding the test.

3. During an assessment, a healthcare provider observes a client with a chest tube and drainage system. What is an expected finding?

• A. Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber
• B. Gentle constant bubbling in the suction control chamber
• C. Drainage system positioned upright at chest level
• D. Exposed sutures without dressing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When assessing a client with a chest tube and drainage system, gentle constant bubbling in the suction control chamber is an expected finding. This indicates that the system is functioning properly. Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber would suggest an air leak, the drainage system should be positioned upright at chest level to promote proper drainage, and exposed sutures without dressing would be an incorrect finding as they should be covered to prevent infection.

4. During a client's first hospitalization, which of the following actions ensures the safety of the client?

• A. Keep unnecessary furniture out of the way
• B. Keep the lights on at all times
• C. Keep side rails up at all times
• D. Keep all equipment out of view

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During a client's first hospitalization, it is essential to keep unnecessary furniture out of the way to prevent obstacles and ensure a safe environment. This action helps reduce the risk of accidents or falls, promoting the client's safety and well-being. Keeping the lights on at all times may not be necessary and can disrupt the client's rest. Keeping side rails up at all times can restrict the client's movement and independence unnecessarily. Keeping all equipment out of view may hinder the healthcare team's ability to monitor and access necessary tools for providing care.

5. Which of the following signs and symptoms would the nurse expect to find when assessing an Asian patient for postoperative pain following abdominal surgery?

• A. Decreased blood pressure and heart rate and shallow respirations
• B. Quiet crying
• C. Immobility, diaphoresis, and avoidance of deep breathing or coughing
• D. Changing position every 2 hours

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Immobility, diaphoresis, and avoidance of deep breathing or coughing are common signs of pain.

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