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 discussing group treatment and therapy with a client, which characteristic should the nurse include as being a characteristic of a therapeutic group?

• A. The group is organized in an autocratic structure.
• B. The group encourages members to focus on a particular issue
• C. The group must be led by a licensed psychiatrist.
• D. The group encourages clients to form dependent relationships.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In therapeutic groups, the focus is often on addressing specific issues or topics. This approach allows group members to concentrate on their concerns, share experiences, and work towards common goals. Autocratic structures, mandatory leadership by a licensed psychiatrist, or fostering dependent relationships are not typical characteristics of therapeutic groups.

3. A healthcare professional is reviewing ABG laboratory results of a client who is in respiratory distress. The results are pH 7.47, PaCO2 32 mm Hg, and HCO3 22 mm Hg. The healthcare professional should recognize that the client is experiencing which of the following acid-base imbalances?

• A. Respiratory acidosis
• B. Respiratory alkalosis
• C. Metabolic acidosis
• D. Metabolic alkalosis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The ABG results show a high pH (alkalosis) along with low PaCO2 and normal HCO3 levels, indicating respiratory alkalosis. In this condition, there is excessive loss of carbon dioxide (as seen by the low PaCO2) leading to a decrease in carbonic acid concentration and subsequent increase in pH. Metabolic acidosis or alkalosis would involve primary changes in bicarbonate levels, which are not predominant in this case.

4. When caring for a client on pressure support ventilation (PSV), which statement by the nurse indicates an understanding of PSV?

• A. It keeps the alveoli open and prevents atelectasis.
• B. It allows preset pressure delivered during spontaneous ventilation.
• C. It guarantees minimal minute ventilator.
• D. It delivers a preset ventilatory rate and tidal volume to the client.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Pressure support ventilation (PSV) is a mode that delivers a preset pressure when the client initiates a breath. This support helps the client to breathe spontaneously by reducing the work of breathing. The correct statement indicating an understanding of PSV is that it allows preset pressure to be delivered during spontaneous ventilation, as it assists the client's efforts without controlling the rate or volume of each breath.

5. 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.

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