Nursing Elites

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

• A. Flush the IV line with saline
• B. Discontinue the IV infusion
• C. Apply a cold compress
• D. Increase the IV flow rate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the IV infusion. The signs of redness and warmth at the IV site indicate phlebitis, an inflammation of the vein. Discontinuing the IV infusion is crucial to prevent further complications such as infection or thrombosis. Flushing the IV line with saline would not address the underlying issue of phlebitis. Applying a cold compress may provide temporary relief but does not address the cause. Increasing the IV flow rate can exacerbate the inflammation and should be avoided.

2. A healthcare provider is assessing the pain level of a client who has dementia and difficulty communicating. Which pain assessment technique should the healthcare provider use?

• A. Verbal self-report
• B. Pain scale
• C. Behavioral indicators
• D. Observing facial expressions

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In clients with dementia and difficulty communicating, using behavioral indicators such as agitation and restlessness is more reliable for assessing pain than relying on verbal self-report, pain scales, or observing facial expressions. Verbal self-report may not be possible due to communication challenges, pain scales may be difficult for the client to comprehend, and observing facial expressions alone may not provide a comprehensive assessment of pain in individuals with dementia.

3. A client with a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus needs instruction on foot care. What advice should the nurse provide?

• A. Soak feet in warm water daily
• B. Wear shoes at all times
• C. Cut toenails in a rounded shape
• D. Inspect the feet weekly

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Wear shoes at all times.' This instruction is crucial for clients with diabetes as it helps protect the feet from potential injuries. Choice A of soaking feet in warm water daily can lead to skin issues and should be avoided. Cutting toenails in a rounded shape, as mentioned in choice C, can increase the risk of ingrown toenails. While inspecting the feet weekly, as in choice D, is important, wearing shoes at all times is a more preventative measure to avoid foot injuries in diabetic clients.

4. A nurse is preparing to perform a routine abdominal assessment. Which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Percuss the abdomen
• B. Auscultate bowel sounds
• C. Inspect the abdomen
• D. Palpate the abdomen

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate bowel sounds. Auscultation should be performed before palpation during an abdominal assessment to avoid altering bowel sounds. Inspecting the abdomen is important but should follow auscultation. Percussion and palpation should be done after auscultation and inspection to ensure an accurate assessment.

5. A client is being taught about measures to promote sleep for insomnia. Which client statement indicates understanding?

• A. I will take naps during the day to help me sleep at night
• B. I should drink caffeine to help me stay awake during the day
• C. I should reduce my fluid intake 2 hours before bedtime
• D. I should exercise right before bed to tire myself out

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. By reducing fluid intake 2 hours before bedtime, the client can prevent nighttime awakenings to urinate, which promotes better sleep. Napping during the day (choice A) may interfere with nighttime sleep. Drinking caffeine (choice B) can disrupt sleep patterns. Exercising right before bed (choice D) can actually stimulate the body and make it harder to fall asleep.

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