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 has a new prescription for digoxin, and a nurse is providing teaching. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will take my pulse before taking this medication.
• B. I will take this medication with an antacid.
• C. I will double the dose if I miss one.
• D. I will avoid eating bananas.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because taking the pulse before administering digoxin is crucial as the medication can cause bradycardia. Monitoring the pulse helps in identifying any signs of bradycardia, a common side effect of digoxin. Options B, C, and D are incorrect. Taking digoxin with an antacid may interfere with its absorption. Doubling the dose if a dose is missed can lead to overdose and adverse effects. Avoiding bananas is not specifically related to digoxin therapy.

3. A healthcare professional is preparing to perform nasotracheal suctioning for a client. Which of the following actions should the healthcare professional take?

• A. Suction during inhalation.
• B. Apply intermittent suction during insertion.
• C. Place the client in a supine position.
• D. Insert the catheter while the client is inhaling.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Inserting the catheter while the client is inhaling helps to align the trachea and vocal cords, reducing the risk of trauma to the respiratory tract. This technique also facilitates easier passage of the catheter into the trachea, enhancing the effectiveness of the suctioning procedure.

4. What action should the nurse take to prevent aspiration in a client receiving enteral nutrition?

• A. Flush the feeding tube with water before and after feedings.
• B. Elevate the head of the bed to 30-45 degrees during feedings.
• C. Administer the feeding slowly.
• D. Check the client's weight daily.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Elevating the head of the bed to 30-45 degrees during feedings is essential to prevent aspiration in clients receiving enteral nutrition. This positioning helps decrease the risk of regurgitation and aspiration by supporting proper digestion and aiding food passage through the gastrointestinal tract. Elevating the head of the bed is a standard precautionary measure recommended to reduce the chances of aspiration and should be consistently implemented during feedings to ensure client safety and optimal enteral nutrition delivery.

5. A nurse is caring for a client who has a new prescription for a low-cholesterol diet. Which of the following foods should the nurse recommend?

• A. Eggs
• B. Cheese
• C. Chicken breast
• D. Butter

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Chicken breast is a suitable recommendation for a low-cholesterol diet as it is low in cholesterol. Eggs and cheese are high in cholesterol and not suitable for a low-cholesterol diet. Butter is also high in cholesterol and should be avoided in a low-cholesterol diet.

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