Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is assessing a client who has a brainstem injury. The nurse should expect the client to exhibit which of the following findings?

• A. Decerebrate posturing.
• B. Hypervigilance.
• C. Absence of deep tendon reflexes.
• D. Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decerebrate posturing. Decerebrate posturing is an abnormal body posture characterized by rigid extension of the arms and legs, which indicates severe brainstem injury affecting the midbrain and pons. This posture suggests dysfunction or damage to neural pathways controlling muscle tone. Choice B, hypervigilance, is not typically associated with brainstem injury but rather with increased alertness and arousal. Choice C, absence of deep tendon reflexes, is not a specific finding related to brainstem injury. Choice D, a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15, indicates a fully awake and alert state, which is not expected in a client with a brainstem injury.

2. What are the signs of hypoglycemia, and how should a healthcare provider respond to a patient experiencing this condition?

• A. Shakiness or Tremors
• B. Confusion or Irritability
• C. Hunger
• D. Dizziness or Lightheadedness

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The signs of hypoglycemia include shakiness, confusion, hunger, dizziness, and lightheadedness. However, the classic and most common early sign is shakiness or tremors. When a patient is experiencing hypoglycemia, a healthcare provider should respond promptly by administering glucose to raise the blood sugar levels. Choice A is correct as it directly addresses one of the primary signs of hypoglycemia. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while confusion, irritability, hunger, dizziness, and lightheadedness can also be signs of hypoglycemia, shakiness or tremors are the classic and most common early symptoms that healthcare providers should be particularly vigilant for.

3. What are the steps in providing perineal care to a patient?

• A. Clean the perineal area with soap and water
• B. Use antiseptic wipes to prevent infection
• C. Pat the area dry after cleaning
• D. Always use gloves when performing care

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Clean the perineal area with soap and water. This step is essential in preventing infection and promoting hygiene. Using antiseptic wipes (choice B) is not a standard practice for perineal care; soap and water are preferred. While patting the area dry after cleaning (choice C) is important, the initial step of cleaning with soap and water is crucial. Using gloves (choice D) is a good practice to prevent the spread of infection, but it is not the initial step in providing perineal care.

4. What should a healthcare professional do when they observe signs of phlebitis in a client receiving IV fluids?

• A. Apply a cold compress
• B. Notify the physician immediately
• C. Apply a warm compress
• D. Administer anti-inflammatory medication

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When signs of phlebitis are observed in a client receiving IV fluids, the appropriate action is to apply a warm compress. This helps to reduce discomfort and swelling at the site of the IV insertion. Applying a cold compress may not be as effective in this case and could potentially worsen the condition. While notifying the physician is important, providing immediate comfort to the client through a warm compress is the initial recommended intervention. Administering anti-inflammatory medication should only be done under the direction of a healthcare provider after assessment and evaluation of the client's condition.

5. What should be included in dietary teaching for a client with chronic kidney disease?

• A. Increase potassium-rich foods in the diet
• B. Limit potassium and phosphorus intake
• C. Increase intake of protein-rich foods
• D. Increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to limit potassium and phosphorus intake for a client with chronic kidney disease. Excessive potassium and phosphorus can be harmful to individuals with compromised kidney function. Option A is incorrect because increasing potassium-rich foods can exacerbate hyperkalemia in individuals with kidney disease. Option C may not be ideal as excessive protein intake can put extra strain on the kidneys. Option D is not the priority; while adequate fluid intake is important, it is not the primary focus when teaching dietary considerations for chronic kidney disease.

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