Nursing Elites

1. When assessing a client with diabetes mellitus experiencing DKA, which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Tremors
• B. Urine retention
• C. Kussmaul respirations
• D. Bradypnea

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Kussmaul respirations are a type of deep and labored breathing pattern associated with severe metabolic acidosis, commonly observed in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In DKA, the body tries to compensate for the acidic environment by increasing the respiratory rate, resulting in Kussmaul respirations. This helps eliminate excess carbon dioxide and reduce the acidity of the blood. Tremors (Choice A) are not typically associated with DKA. Urine retention (Choice B) is not a common finding in DKA; in fact, clients with DKA often have polyuria due to the osmotic diuresis caused by high blood glucose levels. Bradypnea (Choice D), which is abnormally slow breathing rate, is not a characteristic finding in DKA where the respiratory rate is usually increased to compensate for metabolic acidosis.

2. A client with diverticulitis is being taught about dietary management. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I should increase my intake of high-fiber foods.
• B. I should decrease my intake of high-fiber foods.
• C. I should increase my intake of high-fat foods.
• D. I should decrease my intake of high-fat foods.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Increasing intake of high-fiber foods is essential in managing diverticulitis as it helps prevent constipation and promotes bowel regularity, reducing the risk of complications and improving overall colon health. Choice B is incorrect because decreasing high-fiber foods can worsen diverticulitis symptoms. Choices C and D are also incorrect as increasing high-fat foods can exacerbate diverticulitis, while decreasing high-fat foods is generally recommended to manage the condition.

3. A client has a new diagnosis of osteoarthritis and is being taught about dietary management. Which of the following statements should be included in the teaching?

• A. Increase your intake of calcium-rich foods.
• B. Avoid foods that are high in potassium.
• C. Increase your intake of vitamin D-rich foods.
• D. Avoid foods that are high in sodium.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct statement to include in the teaching is to increase the intake of vitamin D-rich foods. Vitamin D helps improve calcium absorption, which is beneficial for bone health and may help alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis. Option A is incorrect because while calcium is important for bone health, the focus should be on vitamin D for calcium absorption. Option B is incorrect as potassium is generally not restricted in osteoarthritis. Option D is also incorrect as sodium restriction is more relevant for conditions like hypertension or heart failure, not specifically for osteoarthritis.

4. A client has major fecal incontinence and reports irritation in the perianal area. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Apply a fecal collection system
• B. Apply a barrier cream
• C. Cleanse and dry the area
• D. Check the client's perineum

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a client with major fecal incontinence reports irritation in the perianal area, the nurse's initial action should be to assess the client's perineum to gather more information. By checking the perineum, the nurse can identify the extent and nature of the irritation, allowing for appropriate interventions to be initiated. This assessment is crucial in developing a comprehensive care plan and addressing the client's immediate needs effectively. Applying the nursing process priority-setting framework helps in planning care and prioritizing nursing actions, making assessment the initial step in this scenario. Applying a fecal collection system (choice A) would be premature without assessing the perineal area first. Similarly, applying a barrier cream (choice B) or cleansing and drying the area (choice C) should follow the assessment to ensure appropriate interventions are chosen based on the assessment findings.

5. What is the primary goal of palliative care?

• A. To cure the client's illness.
• B. To prolong the client's life.
• C. To provide comfort and improve the quality of life.
• D. To prepare the client for surgery.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary goal of palliative care is to provide comfort and improve the quality of life for clients with serious illnesses. Palliative care aims to address physical, emotional, and spiritual needs to enhance overall well-being rather than focusing on curing the underlying illness, prolonging life, or preparing for surgery. It emphasizes symptom management, pain relief, and support for patients and their families to ensure a better quality of life during the course of their illness.

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