Nursing Elites

1. When assessing a client with a small bowel obstruction, what finding should a nurse expect?

• A. Significant abdominal distention
• B. Large bowel movements
• C. High-pitched bowel sounds
• D. Copious vomiting

Correct answer: C

Rationale: High-pitched bowel sounds are often heard early in a small bowel obstruction due to increased peristalsis as the bowel tries to overcome the blockage. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Abdominal distention is more commonly associated with large bowel obstructions, while large bowel movements and copious vomiting are not typical findings in small bowel obstructions.

2. A nurse is caring for a newborn diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Which of the following interventions should the nurse expect to implement?

• A. Withhold oral feedings
• B. Measure abdominal girth
• C. Position the newborn supine
• D. Apply cold compresses to the abdomen

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Measuring abdominal girth is crucial in monitoring for signs of abdominal distension, which is a key indicator of worsening necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). It helps in assessing the progression of the condition. Positioning the newborn supine, as in choice C, can help relieve pressure on the abdomen but does not directly monitor the condition. Applying cold compresses, as in choice D, is not recommended for NEC as it can constrict blood vessels and potentially worsen the condition. Withholding oral feedings, as in choice A, is also important to rest the bowel and prevent further complications, but measuring abdominal girth is more directly related to monitoring the progression of NEC.

3. A client who has a new prescription for simvastatin is receiving teaching from a nurse. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will take this medication in the morning.
• B. I should avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medication.
• C. I should expect my cholesterol levels to increase initially.
• D. I will need to have my kidney function checked every 3 months.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Grapefruit juice can increase the risk of toxicity with simvastatin, so clients should avoid consuming it while on the medication. Choice A is incorrect because the timing of medication administration should be based on healthcare provider instructions. Choice C is incorrect because simvastatin is prescribed to lower cholesterol levels. Choice D is incorrect as monitoring kidney function is not specifically related to simvastatin therapy.

4. Four clients present to the emergency department. The nurse should plan to see which of the following clients first?

• A. A 6-year-old client with a dislocated shoulder
• B. A 26-year-old client with sickle cell disease and severe joint pain
• C. A 76-year-old client who is confused, febrile, and has foul-smelling urine
• D. A 50-year-old client who has slurred speech and reports a headache

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The client with slurred speech and a headache may be experiencing a stroke, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention to prevent irreversible brain damage. While each client requires prompt assessment and care, the priority is to address potentially life-threatening conditions first. Choices A, B, and C, although important, do not present with symptoms as critical as those of a possible stroke, which necessitates urgent intervention.

5. A healthcare provider is preparing to transfer a client from a chair to the bed. The client can bear partial weight and has upper body strength. Which device should the healthcare provider use?

• A. A wheelchair
• B. A stand-assist lift
• C. A transfer belt
• D. A slide board

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A stand-assist lift is the most suitable device for transferring a client who can bear partial weight and has upper body strength. This device provides support and assistance for the client to stand up and transfer safely. Choice A, a wheelchair, is not designed for this purpose and is used for mobility. Choice C, a transfer belt, is helpful for providing stability during transfers but may not be sufficient for a client with partial weight-bearing. Choice D, a slide board, is more suitable for transferring clients who are unable to bear weight and need assistance for lateral transfers.

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