Nursing Elites

1. A client in the emergency department is experiencing an acute asthma attack. Which assessment indicates an improvement in respiratory status?

• A. SaO2 95%
• B. Wheezing
• C. Retraction of sternal muscles
• D. Premature ventricular complexes (PVC's)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An SaO2 of 95% indicates an improvement in the client's oxygen saturation, suggesting better respiratory status. In asthma exacerbation, a decrease in SaO2 levels would signal worsening respiratory distress. Wheezing, retraction of sternal muscles, and premature ventricular complexes are indicators of respiratory compromise and worsening respiratory status in acute asthma attacks. Monitoring SaO2 levels is crucial in assessing the effectiveness of interventions and guiding treatment decisions.

2. When a client is comatose and has advance directives stating a desire to avoid life-sustaining measures, but the family wants these measures, what action should the nurse take?

• A. Arrange for an ethics committee meeting to address the family's concerns.
• B. Support the family's decision and initiate life-sustaining measures.
• C. Complete an incident report.
• D. Encourage the family to contact an attorney.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should prioritize the client's wishes as outlined in the advance directives. By arranging for an ethics committee meeting, the nurse can facilitate discussions between the family and healthcare team to ensure that the client's wishes are respected while addressing the concerns of the family. This approach promotes ethical decision-making and collaborative communication among all involved parties, ultimately aiming to provide the best possible care for the client while considering their autonomy and preferences.

3. Which of the following interventions promotes patient safety?

• A. Assess the patient’s ability to ambulate and transfer from a bed to a chair
• B. Demonstrate the signal system to the patient
• C. Check to see that the patient is wearing their identification band
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: All the listed interventions are essential for promoting patient safety. Assessing the patient’s ability to ambulate and transfer helps prevent falls, demonstrating the signal system ensures effective communication in emergencies, and checking the patient's identification band aids in accurate identification and treatment. By combining these interventions, healthcare providers can enhance patient safety and quality of care.

4. When discussing hair loss with Mrs. Lim, who begins to cry, the best response would be:

• A. Don’t worry. It’s only temporary
• B. Why are you crying? I didn’t get to the bad news yet
• C. Your hair is really pretty
• D. I know this will be difficult for you, but your hair will grow back after the completion of chemotherapy

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a patient is emotionally affected, it is essential to acknowledge their feelings while providing reassurance and information. Option D demonstrates empathy by acknowledging the difficulty Mrs. Lim is facing and offers hope by reassuring her that her hair will grow back after chemotherapy, which can provide comfort and support during a challenging time.

5. A client complains of difficulty swallowing when the nurse tries to administer capsule medication. Which of the following measures should the nurse take?

• A. Dissolve the capsule in a glass of water
• B. Break the capsule and give the contents with applesauce
• C. Check the availability of a liquid preparation
• D. Crush the capsule and place it under the tongue

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a client has difficulty swallowing capsule medication, the nurse should check the availability of a liquid preparation. This is a safer approach and ensures that the medication's integrity is maintained, providing an alternative form that is easier for the client to take. Dissolving the capsule in water (choice A) may alter the medication's effectiveness, breaking the capsule and mixing the contents with applesauce (choice B) is not recommended as it may cause an unpleasant taste, and crushing the capsule and placing it under the tongue (choice D) can be unsafe and affect the medication's absorption.

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