Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is assessing a client who has diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Blood glucose 120 mg/dL
• B. pH 7.32
• C. HCO3 25 mEq/L
• D. PaCO2 48 mm Hg

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. A pH of 7.32 indicates metabolic acidosis, which is a hallmark of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In DKA, blood glucose levels are typically elevated, bicarbonate levels are often low, and there is a compensatory respiratory response leading to a decrease in PaCO2. Option A is incorrect because a blood glucose level of 120 mg/dL is within the normal range and not indicative of DKA. Option C is incorrect because an HCO3 level of 25 mEq/L is not typically seen in DKA where bicarbonate levels are usually lower. Option D is incorrect because a PaCO2 of 48 mm Hg would not be expected in DKA; it would typically be lower due to compensatory respiratory alkalosis.

2. A nurse in an emergency department is serving on a committee that is reviewing the facility protocol for disaster readiness. The nurse should recommend that the protocol include which of the following as a clinical manifestation of smallpox?

• A. Bloody diarrhea
• B. Ptosis of the eyelids
• C. Descending paralysis
• D. Rash in the mouth

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Rash in the mouth.' Smallpox presents with a distinctive rash that typically begins in the mouth and spreads to the rest of the body, developing into pustules. This rash is a key clinical manifestation of smallpox. This infectious disease is characterized by the rash, fever, and other systemic symptoms. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they are not associated with smallpox. Bloody diarrhea, ptosis of the eyelids, and descending paralysis are not typical clinical manifestations of smallpox.

3. A nurse is supervising an LPN who is providing care to a patient who is postoperative. Which of the following statements by the patient requires the nurse to follow up with the LPN?

• A. “I am experiencing some pain, but it’s tolerable.”
• B. “The nurse checked my vital signs earlier.”
• C. “I have not received any of my medications today.”
• D. “I am scheduled for therapy later today.”

Correct answer: C

Rationale: If the patient states they have not received any medications, it requires immediate follow-up to prevent missed doses and complications. The other options do not pose an immediate risk to the patient. Option A indicates pain but is tolerable, which is a common postoperative experience. Option B states that vital signs were checked, indicating ongoing monitoring. Option D mentions therapy, which is a scheduled activity and not an urgent concern regarding medication administration.

4. A client with a new diagnosis of hypertension is being taught about lifestyle modifications by a nurse. What dietary change should the nurse recommend?

• A. Increase sodium intake
• B. Limit alcohol consumption
• C. Eat a high-protein diet
• D. Follow a high-fat diet

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Limit alcohol consumption. When managing hypertension, it is crucial to reduce alcohol intake as it can raise blood pressure. High alcohol consumption can also interfere with the effectiveness of antihypertensive medications. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Increasing sodium intake (Choice A) is not recommended for hypertension as it can lead to fluid retention and elevated blood pressure. Eating a high-protein diet (Choice C) or following a high-fat diet (Choice D) are also not ideal for managing hypertension, as they can have negative impacts on cardiovascular health.

5. While caring for a client receiving patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), which of the following interventions should the nurse take?

• A. Encourage the client to use the PCA before dressing changes.
• B. Monitor the client's respiratory status.
• C. Provide oxygen therapy to the client as needed.
• D. Ensure the PCA pump is functioning properly.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: The nurse should encourage the client to use the PCA pump before activities like dressing changes, which are likely to cause pain, to ensure effective pain management. Monitoring the client's respiratory status (Choice B) is important but not the priority in this scenario. Providing oxygen therapy (Choice C) is not a routine intervention for all clients on PCA unless specifically indicated. Ensuring the PCA pump is functioning properly (Choice D) is essential, but encouraging the client to use the PCA before painful activities takes precedence to manage pain effectively.

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