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 healthcare professional is preparing to administer a cleansing enema to a client. Which of the following actions should the healthcare professional plan to take?

• A. Insert the rectal tube 15.2 cm (6 inches) into the client's rectum
• B. Wear clean gloves before inserting the tubing
• C. Position the client on their left side
• D. Hold the solution bag 91 cm (36 inches) above the client's rectum

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Positioning the client on their left side is crucial when administering an enema as it helps facilitate the flow of the solution into the sigmoid and descending colon. This position allows gravity to assist in the process. Placing the client on the left side is a standard practice to promote optimal outcomes during the procedure. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A provides a specific measurement for the insertion depth of the rectal tube, which is not typically necessary to include in the plan of action. Choice B is essential but not specific to enema administration. Choice D mentions holding the solution bag without specifying the correct height, which should typically be around 18-24 inches above the rectum for a cleansing enema.

3. A client has a pressure ulcer. Which of the following findings indicates healing of the ulcer?

• A. Increase in drainage.
• B. Decrease in size.
• C. Presence of foul odor.
• D. Reddened wound edges.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a pressure ulcer is healing, there is a decrease in its size as the tissue repair progresses. This reduction in size is a positive indication of the healing process. An increase in drainage, presence of foul odor, or reddened wound edges are typically signs of infection or lack of improvement. Therefore, the correct answer is a decrease in size.

4. A client has a new prescription for a low-fat diet. Which of the following foods should be recommended?

• A. Bacon
• B. Whole milk
• C. Chicken breast
• D. Cheese

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When following a low-fat diet, it is essential to choose foods that are low in fat. Chicken breast is a lean protein source that is low in fat, making it a suitable option for a low-fat diet. Bacon, whole milk, and cheese are higher in fat content and should be avoided or limited in a low-fat diet. Bacon is high in saturated fat, whole milk contains significant amounts of fat, including saturated fat, and cheese is also high in fat. Therefore, these options are not ideal for a low-fat diet.

5. A client is experiencing dysphagia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Provide small food pieces.
• B. Offer thickened liquids.
• C. Encourage the client to sit upright after meals.
• D. Place food on the unaffected side of the mouth.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When caring for a client with dysphagia, placing food on the unaffected side of the mouth can help them chew and swallow more effectively. This technique can assist in minimizing the risk of aspiration and improve the client's ability to manage food safely. Providing small food pieces, offering thickened liquids, and encouraging the client to sit upright after meals are also important interventions in managing dysphagia, but placing food on the unaffected side of the mouth is a specific technique that directly addresses the swallowing difficulty associated with dysphagia.

Similar Questions