Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare provider is assessing an infant who has hydrocephalus and is 6 hours postoperative following placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Which of the following findings should the provider report to the healthcare provider?

• A. Decreased urine output
• B. Temperature of 37.5 degrees C (99.5 degrees F)
• C. Heart rate 130/min
• D. Leakage of cerebrospinal fluid

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The provider should report the leakage of cerebrospinal fluid to the healthcare provider as it may indicate shunt malfunction or infection, requiring immediate attention to prevent complications. Decreased urine output, a temperature of 37.5 degrees C, and a heart rate of 130/min are common postoperative findings and may not be directly related to shunt function. While these findings should still be monitored, they do not require immediate reporting like cerebrospinal fluid leakage.

2. A patient is prescribed Lisinopril as part of the treatment plan for heart failure. Which finding indicates the patient is experiencing the therapeutic effect of this drug?

• A. Weight gain of 5 pounds in 1 week
• B. Potassium level of 3.5mEq/L
• C. Crackles in the lungs are no longer heard
• D. Jugular vein distention

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, promotes venous dilation, which helps reduce pulmonary congestion and peripheral edema. The absence of previously heard crackles in the lungs indicates effectiveness in reducing pulmonary congestion. Edema and jugular vein distention are signs of heart failure and would not indicate the therapeutic effect of Lisinopril. A potassium level of 3.5mEq/L is within the normal range and not directly related to the therapeutic effect of Lisinopril.

3. When teaching a parent of a child with contact dermatitis, which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Apply a thick layer of antibiotic ointment to the affected area.
• B. Rub the skin vigorously with a towel to dry it.
• C. Keep the child's skin dry.
• D. Apply a thin layer of corticosteroid cream to the affected area.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction for a child with contact dermatitis is to apply a thin layer of corticosteroid cream to the affected area. Corticosteroid cream helps reduce inflammation and itching associated with contact dermatitis. It is important to avoid using antibiotic ointment or rubbing the skin vigorously, as these can worsen the condition. Keeping the child's skin dry is generally a good practice, but in the case of contact dermatitis, corticosteroid cream application is more beneficial.

4. During a vaso-occlusive crisis in sickle cell anemia, what action is crucial for a nurse to take?

• A. Administer meperidine for pain.
• B. Apply cold compresses to the child's joints.
• C. Limit the child's fluid intake.
• D. Maintain bed rest for the child.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During a vaso-occlusive crisis in sickle cell anemia, maintaining bed rest is crucial to reduce oxygen consumption and alleviate pain. Movement can worsen the crisis by increasing sickling of red blood cells, leading to further tissue damage and pain. Bed rest helps to improve blood flow, reduce pain, and promote healing. Administering meperidine for pain (Choice A) is not recommended due to the risk of normeperidine accumulation and potential neurotoxicity. Applying cold compresses (Choice B) may cause vasoconstriction, worsening the vaso-occlusive crisis. Limiting fluid intake (Choice C) is not appropriate as adequate hydration is essential to prevent dehydration and maintain blood flow.

5. Which statement fosters cultural competence?

• A. Treat everyone the same regardless of their culture
• B. Provide an outline of your beliefs as a starting point
• C. Acknowledge and respond to influences of cultural beliefs in the intervention plan
• D. Ask the family to outline how their beliefs will influence therapy

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Cultural competence involves recognizing and considering the impact of cultural beliefs on individuals. By acknowledging and responding to these cultural influences in the intervention plan, professionals can tailor their approach effectively and respectfully. This approach helps build trust, enhances communication, and improves outcomes in culturally diverse settings.

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