Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is assessing a client for signs of hypokalemia. Which of the following findings should the nurse look for?

• A. Muscle weakness
• B. Weight gain
• C. Elevated blood pressure
• D. Increased thirst

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Muscle weakness is a classic sign of hypokalemia. Potassium plays a crucial role in muscle function, and low potassium levels can lead to muscle weakness. Weight gain, elevated blood pressure, and increased thirst are not typically associated with hypokalemia. Weight gain can be seen in conditions like fluid retention, elevated blood pressure can result from various causes, and increased thirst may be a symptom of conditions like diabetes.

2. A patient is receiving chemotherapy and reports nausea. Which of the following dietary recommendations should the nurse make?

• A. Eat foods served hot
• B. Drink liquids between meals
• C. Eat dry cereal
• D. Choose foods with a strong aroma

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct recommendation for a patient receiving chemotherapy and experiencing nausea is to suggest eating dry, bland foods like cereal. These types of foods are often better tolerated as they are less likely to trigger nausea compared to aromatic or hot foods. Drinking liquids between meals, as suggested in option B, can be helpful to prevent dehydration but may not specifically address the nausea. Eating foods with a strong aroma, as in option D, may actually worsen nausea in patients undergoing chemotherapy.

3. A nurse is caring for a client receiving radiation treatments for cancer. The client states he is experiencing dryness, redness, and scaling at the treatment area. Which of the following should the nurse instruct the client to do?

• A. Sit in the sun for 15 minutes per day.
• B. Apply moist heat to the area twice daily.
• C. Liberally apply prescribed lotion to the area.
• D. Wash the affected area daily with antimicrobial soap.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should instruct the client to liberally apply prescribed lotion to the treatment area. Prescribed hydrating lotions help soothe and protect irradiated skin, reducing dryness, redness, and scaling. Sitting in the sun can further damage the skin. Applying moist heat may exacerbate the skin condition. Washing the area with antimicrobial soap can be too harsh and further irritate the skin.

4. A nurse is preparing a client for transfer to another unit. Which finding should the nurse include in the transfer report?

• A. Response to pain medication
• B. Review of ongoing discharge plan
• C. Recent physical changes
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When preparing a client for transfer to another unit, the nurse should include all the findings mentioned in the choices in the transfer report. It is crucial to document the client's response to pain medication as it helps the receiving unit manage the client's pain effectively. Reviewing the ongoing discharge plan ensures that the client's care continues seamlessly after the transfer. Noting recent physical changes is vital for the receiving unit to monitor the client's condition accurately. Therefore, all of the above findings are essential for ensuring continuity of care and providing comprehensive information to the receiving unit.

5. In orienting new staff nurses to a pediatric intensive care unit, what is an important consideration in providing information to parents of a critically ill child?

• A. Making sure they receive complete information during each encounter
• B. Assessing parents' preferences regarding the amount of information
• C. Allowing parents to observe key aspects of their child's care
• D. Providing patient education brochures explaining ICU protocols

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Assessing parents' preferences about the amount of information is crucial because it allows for individualized care that respects their needs and emotional capacity during a stressful time. Choice A is not ideal as overwhelming parents with complete information during each encounter may not align with their preferences. Choice C, while valuable, may not always be feasible or appropriate due to privacy concerns or medical procedures. Choice D, providing brochures, may not address the specific needs or preferences of each set of parents, making it less effective than assessing individual preferences.

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