Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is assessing a client who reports a burning sensation at the site of a peripheral IV. The site is red and swollen. What is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Apply a cold compress
• B. Discontinue the IV line
• C. Elevate the limb
• D. Increase the IV flow rate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the IV line. The client's symptoms of a burning sensation, redness, and swelling at the IV site indicate phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein. The priority action in this situation is to remove the source of irritation, which is the IV line, to prevent further complications such as infection or thrombosis. Applying a cold compress may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue. Elevating the limb is not the priority in this case. Increasing the IV flow rate can worsen the phlebitis by causing further irritation to the vein.

2. A client with diabetes mellitus is being taught about the importance of foot care by a nurse. Which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Cut toenails straight across
• B. Wear shoes at all times
• C. Soak feet in hot water daily
• D. Apply lotion between the toes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Wear shoes at all times.' Clients with diabetes are at a higher risk of foot complications due to poor circulation and nerve damage. Wearing shoes at all times helps protect their feet from injuries. Choice A is incorrect because toenails should be cut straight across to prevent ingrown toenails. Choice C is incorrect as soaking feet in hot water can lead to burns or skin damage, especially for those with diabetes who may have reduced sensation. Choice D is incorrect because applying lotion between the toes can create a moist environment, increasing the risk of fungal infections.

3. A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following abdominal surgery. What behavior should the nurse identify as increasing the client's risk for constipation?

• A. Increased physical activity
• B. Frequent urge suppression
• C. Adequate sleep
• D. Increased fluid intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Frequent urge suppression can lead to constipation, especially postoperatively. Suppressing the urge to defecate can disrupt the normal bowel movement pattern and lead to constipation. Choices A, C, and D are behaviors that generally help prevent constipation rather than increase the risk. Increased physical activity, adequate sleep, and increased fluid intake promote bowel regularity and reduce the risk of constipation.

4. A nurse is caring for a client who reports a decrease in the effectiveness of their arthritis medication. What factor should the nurse identify as contributing to this decrease?

• A. Improved mobility
• B. Bowel inflammation
• C. Long-term use of the medication
• D. Frequent dehydration

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Bowel inflammation. Bowel inflammation can decrease the absorption of medications, reducing their effectiveness. Improved mobility (choice A) would generally not contribute to a decrease in medication effectiveness. Long-term use of the medication (choice C) may lead to tolerance but would not directly cause a decrease in effectiveness. Frequent dehydration (choice D) can affect overall health but is not a direct factor in the medication's effectiveness for arthritis.

5. A client has a new prescription for a cane. What instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Hold the cane on the weaker side
• B. Ensure the cane has a rubber tip
• C. Keep the cane on the dominant side
• D. Use the cane only on stairs

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Ensure the cane has a rubber tip.' This instruction is essential for safety as the rubber tip prevents slipping, providing stability. Choice A is incorrect because the cane should be held on the stronger side to provide better support and balance. Choice C is incorrect as the cane should be used on the stronger, more dominant side. Choice D is also incorrect as a cane is not only used on stairs but also for general support and mobility.

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