Nursing Elites

1. A client with a long history of smoking is being assessed by a nurse. Which finding is a common complication of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

• A. Decreased anteroposterior chest diameter
• B. Increased breath sounds
• C. Prolonged expiratory phase
• D. Increased chest expansion

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In COPD, a prolonged expiratory phase is a typical finding caused by airway obstruction and air trapping. This results in difficulty expelling air from the lungs, leading to the characteristic prolonged exhalation in individuals with COPD.

2. A client with a chest tube connected to a closed drainage system needs to be transported to the x-ray department. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Clamp the chest tube prior to transferring the client to a wheelchair.
• B. Disconnect the chest tube from the drainage system during transport.
• C. Keep the drainage system below the level of the client's chest at all times.
• D. Empty the collection chamber prior to transport.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When transporting a client with a chest tube connected to a closed drainage system, it is crucial to keep the drainage system below the level of the client's chest at all times. This positioning prevents the backflow of drainage into the client's chest, reducing the risk of complications. Clamping the chest tube, disconnecting it from the drainage system, or emptying the collection chamber are incorrect actions and can potentially harm the client or lead to complications.

3. A client with diabetes is experiencing symptoms of hypoglycemia. What should the nurse administer first?

• A. 10 units of regular insulin subcutaneously
• B. 50 mL of 50% dextrose solution intravenously
• C. 1 mg of glucagon intramuscularly
• D. 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate orally

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct first intervention for a client experiencing hypoglycemia is administering 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate orally. If the client is conscious and able to swallow, providing quick-acting carbohydrates helps raise blood glucose levels rapidly and effectively. This approach is preferred over other options like administering insulin, dextrose solution intravenously, or glucagon, which are not the initial interventions for hypoglycemia.

4. A client in a clinic presents with an acute asthma exacerbation. Which of the following medications should reduce the symptoms?

• A. Cromolyn via a metered-dose inhaler
• B. Montelukast orally
• C. Budesonide via a dry-powder inhaler
• D. Albuterol via a jet nebulizer

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During an acute asthma exacerbation, the preferred medication for symptom relief is a short-acting beta-agonist like albuterol, typically delivered via a jet nebulizer for quick onset and efficacy. Cromolyn, montelukast, and budesonide are not as effective for immediate symptom relief in acute exacerbations and are more commonly used for prevention or long-term management of asthma symptoms.

5. A student is practicing suctioning a tracheostomy in the skills laboratory. What action by the student demonstrates that more teaching is needed?

• A. Applying suction while withdrawing the catheter
• B. Preoxygenating the client before suctioning
• C. Suctioning up to three times if necessary
• D. Suctioning for a duration of 10 to 15 seconds each time

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct technique for suctioning a tracheostomy involves applying suction while withdrawing the catheter to avoid damaging the tracheal mucosa. Therefore, the student applying suction while inserting the catheter indicates a need for further teaching. Preoxygenating the client, suctioning up to three times if necessary, and limiting suctioning to 10 to 15 seconds each time are all appropriate actions in tracheostomy suctioning.

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