Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a 37-year-old woman with metastatic ovarian cancer admitted for nausea and vomiting. The physician orders total parenteral nutrition (TPN), a nutritional consult, and diet recall. Which of the following is the BEST indication that the patient's nutritional status has improved after 4 days?

• A. The patient eats most of the food served to her
• B. The patient has gained 1 pound since admission
• C. The patient's albumin level is 4.0mg/dL
• D. The patient's hemoglobin is 8.5g/dL

Correct answer: C

Rationale: An improved albumin level is the best indicator of improved nutritional status after TPN. Albumin is a key protein that reflects the body's overall nutritional status and is commonly used to assess nutritional health. Choices A, B, and D are not as reliable indicators of improved nutritional status. Choice A may not accurately reflect nutritional improvement as it could be influenced by factors other than nutrition. Choice B may indicate fluid retention or loss rather than true nutritional improvement. Choice D, hemoglobin level, is more related to anemia and oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, rather than nutritional status.

2. What is the proper technique for obtaining a blood specimen from a central venous line?

• A. Use sterile gloves and discard the first 10 mL of blood
• B. Flush the line with heparin and then draw the specimen
• C. Draw the specimen and then administer heparin
• D. Use non-sterile gloves to reduce contamination risk

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct technique for obtaining a blood specimen from a central venous line is to use sterile gloves and discard the first 10 mL of blood. This practice helps ensure that the blood sample collected is not contaminated. Choice B is incorrect because flushing the line with heparin before drawing the specimen can contaminate the sample. Choice C is incorrect as administering heparin before drawing the specimen can affect the accuracy of the blood sample. Choice D is incorrect as using non-sterile gloves increases the risk of contamination, which is not recommended when obtaining a blood specimen from a central venous line.

3. Which of the following interventions is most appropriate for a client with left-leg weakness who is learning to use a cane?

• A. Maintain two points of support on the floor at all times
• B. Use the cane on the weak side of the body
• C. Advance the cane and the strong leg simultaneously
• D. Advance the cane 30 to 45 cm (12-18 in) with each step

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate intervention for a client with left-leg weakness learning to use a cane is to maintain two points of support on the floor at all times. This ensures stability and helps distribute weight evenly between the legs, reducing the risk of falls. Using the cane on the weak side of the body (Choice B) may not provide adequate support. Advancing the cane and the strong leg simultaneously (Choice C) can lead to imbalance and increases the risk of falls. Advancing the cane too far with each step (Choice D) can also compromise balance and stability.

4. Which of the following actions should the nurse take for a client who has been diagnosed with dementia and is at risk for falls?

• A. Maintain the client's bed in the lowest position
• B. Use a bed exit alarm system
• C. Assist the client with ambulation every hour
• D. Raise all 4 side rails for safety

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Use a bed exit alarm system." For a client with dementia at risk for falls, a bed exit alarm system is beneficial as it alerts staff when the client is trying to get up, helping to reduce fall risks. Choice A, maintaining the client's bed in the lowest position, may not prevent falls as effectively as an alarm system. Choice C, assisting the client with ambulation every hour, may not be feasible and could disrupt the client's rest. Choice D, raising all 4 side rails for safety, can lead to restraint issues and is not recommended as a routine fall prevention measure.

5. What are the key signs of hyperglycemia?

• A. Increased thirst and frequent urination
• B. Decreased appetite and low blood pressure
• C. Weight loss and nausea
• D. Increased sweating and confusion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increased thirst and frequent urination. These are classic signs of hyperglycemia, indicating elevated blood sugar levels. Choice B is incorrect as hyperglycemia usually presents with increased appetite rather than decreased appetite and low blood pressure. Choice C is incorrect as weight loss is more commonly associated with uncontrolled diabetes rather than hyperglycemia. Choice D is incorrect as increased sweating and confusion are not typical signs of hyperglycemia.

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