Nursing Elites

1. A client with meningitis is being assessed by a healthcare provider. Which of the following findings should the provider expect?

• A. Negative Brudzinski’s sign.
• B. Flaccid neck muscles.
• C. Petechial rash.
• D. Hypoactive deep tendon reflexes.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A petechial rash is a characteristic finding in clients with meningitis, indicating small, pinpoint hemorrhages under the skin. This rash results from the infection's impact on the blood vessels. Petechiae are important to recognize as they can help differentiate meningitis from other conditions with similar symptoms. Brudzinski’s sign, neck stiffness, and positive Kernig’s sign are more common physical exam findings in meningitis. Flaccid neck muscles and hypoactive deep tendon reflexes are not typically associated with meningitis.

2. During postoperative teaching following a hip arthroplasty, which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Avoid lying on your operative side.
• B. Cross your legs at the ankles only.
• C. Place a pillow between your legs when turning.
• D. Avoid bending your hip more than 120 degrees.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to include during postoperative teaching following a hip arthroplasty is to 'Place a pillow between your legs when turning.' Placing a pillow between the legs when turning is crucial as it helps prevent dislocation of the hip prosthesis. This position aids in maintaining proper alignment and stability, thereby reducing the risk of complications after hip arthroplasty surgery. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not directly address the specific action needed to protect the hip prosthesis and prevent complications.

3. What is the primary goal of palliative care?

• A. To cure the client's illness.
• B. To prolong the client's life.
• C. To provide comfort and improve the quality of life.
• D. To prepare the client for surgery.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary goal of palliative care is to provide comfort and improve the quality of life for clients with serious illnesses. Palliative care aims to address physical, emotional, and spiritual needs to enhance overall well-being rather than focusing on curing the underlying illness, prolonging life, or preparing for surgery. It emphasizes symptom management, pain relief, and support for patients and their families to ensure a better quality of life during the course of their illness.

4. When caring for a client with a prescription for wound irrigation, which action should the nurse take?

• A. Use a 10-mL syringe with an 18-gauge needle.
• B. Cleanse the wound from the center outward.
• C. Apply a wet-to-dry dressing.
• D. Pack the wound tightly with gauze.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When caring for a client with a prescription for wound irrigation, the nurse should cleanse the wound from the center outward. This technique helps prevent the introduction of microorganisms into the wound, reducing the risk of contamination and promoting effective wound healing. By using a circular motion from the cleanest area to the least clean areas, debris and bacteria are moved away from the wound site, decreasing the chances of infection.

5. When teaching a client with a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus about foot care, which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Soak your feet in hot water every day.
• B. Apply lotion between your toes.
• C. Inspect your feet daily.
• D. Use over-the-counter products to remove corns.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Inspecting the feet daily is crucial for clients with diabetes mellitus to detect early signs of injury or infection promptly. This practice helps prevent serious complications such as diabetic foot ulcers. Soaking feet in hot water daily can lead to skin dryness and increase the risk of injury. Applying lotion between toes can cause moisture buildup, leading to fungal infections. Using over-the-counter products to remove corns can result in skin damage and should be done under healthcare provider supervision.

Similar Questions