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 is caring for a client who has a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Encourage the client to ambulate frequently.
• B. Apply warm, moist compresses to the affected leg.
• C. Massage the affected leg.
• D. Place the client in a supine position.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct intervention for a client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is to apply warm, moist compresses to the affected leg. This helps alleviate pain and improve circulation in the affected area, aiding in the treatment of DVT. Encouraging the client to ambulate frequently (Choice A) is contraindicated as it can dislodge the clot and lead to complications. Massaging the affected leg (Choice C) is also contraindicated as it can dislodge the clot and potentially cause an embolism. Placing the client in a supine position (Choice D) is not specifically indicated for DVT treatment; elevation of the affected leg is preferred over placing the client completely supine.

3. A nurse is planning to administer several medications to a client through an NG tube. Which actions should the nurse take?

• A. Dissolve crushed tablet medications in tap water
• B. Use 30-40 mL of sterile water for each medication
• C. Dissolve crushed tablet medications in sterile water
• D. Administer medications without dissolving

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when administering medications through an NG tube is to dissolve crushed tablet medications in 15-30 mL of sterile water. This ensures proper delivery through the NG tube and reduces the risk of clogging. Choice A is incorrect because tap water may contain impurities that can cause complications. Choice B suggests using a higher volume of sterile water than necessary, which may lead to dilution of the medications. Choice D is incorrect as medications should be dissolved to prevent blockages in the NG tube.

4. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client following a heart transplant. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Immunosuppressant medications need to be taken for up to 1 year
• B. Shortness of breath might be an indication of transplant rejection
• C. The surgical site will heal in 3 to 4 weeks after surgery
• D. Begin 45 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per day following discharge

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because shortness of breath is an indication of transplant rejection, along with other manifestations like fatigue, edema, bradycardia, and hypotension. Choice A is incorrect because immunosuppressant medications are usually taken for life to prevent rejection. Choice C is incorrect as the surgical site may take longer to heal fully. Choice D is incorrect as the initiation of exercise post-heart transplant should be gradual and individualized based on the client's condition.

5. A nurse is caring for a client with encephalopathy secondary to liver failure. The client has been prescribed a high-calorie, low-protein diet. Which of the following meal selections is appropriate for this client?

• A. Scrambled eggs, bacon, and pancakes
• B. Grilled cheese sandwich, potato chips, chocolate pudding
• C. Steak, French fries, corn
• D. Chicken breast, mashed potatoes, spinach

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Chicken breast provides a low-fat protein source, and mashed potatoes and spinach provide high-calorie nutrients suitable for managing liver failure. Option A (Scrambled eggs, bacon, and pancakes) is high in protein, which is not suitable for a low-protein diet. Option B (Grilled cheese sandwich, potato chips, chocolate pudding) contains high protein and may not be appropriate for the client. Option C (Steak, French fries, corn) is high in protein and fat, which are not recommended for this client's dietary requirements.

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