Nursing Elites

1. A client has had a cast applied, and a nurse is providing care. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Place an ice pack over the cast.
• B. Palpate the pulse distal to the cast.
• C. Teach the client to keep the cast clean and dry.
• D. Position the casted extremity on a pillow.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When caring for a client with a newly applied cast, the nurse's priority should be to assess the circulation by palpating the pulse distal to the cast. This is crucial to ensure there is no compromise in blood flow, which could lead to serious complications. Placing an ice pack over the cast, teaching the client about cast care, and positioning the casted extremity on a pillow are important interventions but should follow the assessment of circulation.

2. Which pulse's absence may not be a significant finding when a patient is admitted to the hospital?

• A. Apical
• B. Radial
• C. Pedal
• D. Femoral

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The absence of the pedal pulse may not be significant if the patient has poor peripheral circulation or if the healthcare provider is focused on other pulse points. The pedal pulse is often weaker and may not always be palpable due to various factors, making its absence less concerning in certain situations. However, the absence of other pulses like radial or femoral pulses may indicate more critical conditions and require immediate attention.

3. When a client is comatose and has advance directives stating a desire to avoid life-sustaining measures, but the family wants these measures, what action should the nurse take?

• A. Arrange for an ethics committee meeting to address the family's concerns.
• B. Support the family's decision and initiate life-sustaining measures.
• C. Complete an incident report.
• D. Encourage the family to contact an attorney.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should prioritize the client's wishes as outlined in the advance directives. By arranging for an ethics committee meeting, the nurse can facilitate discussions between the family and healthcare team to ensure that the client's wishes are respected while addressing the concerns of the family. This approach promotes ethical decision-making and collaborative communication among all involved parties, ultimately aiming to provide the best possible care for the client while considering their autonomy and preferences.

4. If a healthcare provider administers an injection to a patient who refuses, they have committed:

• A. Assault and battery
• B. Negligence
• C. Malpractice
• D. None of the above

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a healthcare provider administers treatment, such as an injection, against a patient's refusal or will, it constitutes assault and battery. Assault refers to the intentional act that causes a person to fear that they will be touched without consent, while battery involves the actual harmful or offensive contact. In this scenario, administering the injection without the patient's consent is both an assault (causing fear of unwanted contact) and a battery (unwanted physical contact). Therefore, the correct answer is 'Assault and battery.' Negligence refers to a failure to exercise the appropriate level of care expected in a situation, while malpractice involves professional negligence or misconduct.

5. When caring for a client who speaks a language different from their own, what action should the nurse take?

• A. Request an interpreter of a different sex from the client.
• B. Request a family member or friend to interpret information for the client.
• C. Direct attention toward the interpreter when speaking to the client.
• D. Review the facility policy about the use of an interpreter.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When caring for a client who speaks a different language, it is essential for the nurse to review the facility policy about the use of an interpreter. Using a professional interpreter ensures accurate communication and protects the client's confidentiality. Requesting an interpreter of a specific sex or relying on family members or friends can lead to miscommunication or breaches of confidentiality. Directing attention towards the interpreter helps facilitate communication but does not address the need for a professional interpreter as per facility policy.

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