Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is assessing a client who has just received an opioid medication. Which of the following findings should the nurse monitor first?

• A. Constipation.
• B. Drowsiness.
• C. Orthostatic hypotension.
• D. Respiratory depression.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a client receives an opioid medication, the nurse should first monitor for respiratory depression as it is a life-threatening adverse effect associated with opioids. This can lead to inadequate ventilation and hypoxia, requiring immediate intervention. Constipation, drowsiness, and orthostatic hypotension are also common side effects of opioids but are not as immediately life-threatening as respiratory depression.

2. A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Increased WBC count.
• B. Decreased hemoglobin.
• C. Decreased platelet count.
• D. Positive rheumatoid factor.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Positive rheumatoid factor. A positive rheumatoid factor is a common laboratory finding in clients with rheumatoid arthritis, indicating an autoimmune response. Option A, increased WBC count, is not typically associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Option B, decreased hemoglobin, and option C, decreased platelet count, are not specific laboratory findings for rheumatoid arthritis.

3. A client is experiencing a panic attack. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Instruct the client to take deep, slow breaths.
• B. Administer an anti-anxiety medication.
• C. Remain with the client and offer reassurance.
• D. Encourage the client to use distraction techniques.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During a panic attack, the priority action for the nurse is to remain with the client and offer reassurance. This helps provide a sense of safety and security, which can aid in reducing the client's anxiety. Instructing the client to take deep, slow breaths (Choice A) can be beneficial but should come after providing immediate support. Administering medication (Choice B) should not be the first intervention unless deemed necessary by the healthcare provider. Encouraging distraction techniques (Choice D) may not be as effective initially as providing direct support and reassurance.

4. A nurse is caring for a client with heart failure receiving digoxin. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Heart rate 60/min.
• B. Blood pressure 110/70 mm Hg.
• C. Serum potassium 4 mEq/L.
• D. Blood pressure 120/80 mm Hg.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. A blood pressure of 110/70 mm Hg is a finding that the nurse should report to the provider when caring for a client with heart failure receiving digoxin. Digoxin can cause hypotension, so a low blood pressure reading should be reported promptly to the provider for further evaluation and management. Choices A, C, and D are within normal ranges and would not require immediate reporting. A heart rate of 60/min is considered normal, but any further decrease should be monitored. A serum potassium level of 4 mEq/L is also within the normal range. A blood pressure of 120/80 mm Hg is typically considered normal as well.

5. A hospice nurse is visiting with the son of a client who has terminal cancer. The son reports sleeping very little during the past week due to caring for his mother. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• A. I can give you information about respite care if you are interested.
• B. You should consider taking a sleeping pill before bed each night.
• C. It must be difficult taking care of someone who is terminally ill.
• D. You are doing a great job taking care of your mother.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Offering information about respite care is a therapeutic response that supports the caregiver. Choice B suggests a quick fix with sleeping pills without addressing the underlying issue of caregiver stress. Choice C, though empathetic, does not offer practical assistance or support. Choice D, while positive, does not address the son's need for rest and support.

Similar Questions