Nursing Elites

1. A client on an acute mental health unit reports hearing voices that are stating, "kill your doctor"?. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Encourage the client to participate in group therapy on the unit.
• B. Initiate one-to-one observation of the client.
• C. Focus the client on reality.
• D. Notify the provider of the client's statement.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client experiences command hallucinations, such as being told to harm someone, the priority is ensuring the safety of the client and others. Initiating one-to-one observation allows for close monitoring and intervention to prevent harm. Encouraging participation in group therapy may not be appropriate or safe at this time. Focusing the client on reality may not be effective when experiencing hallucinations, and notifying the provider should come after immediate safety measures have been taken.

2. Which of the following statements best describes compartment syndrome?

• A. An injury causes pain and tingling that starts in the buttock and travels down the leg.
• B. An injury causes swelling within muscle tissue that leads to anoxia of nerves and muscles.
• C. An injury causes permanent flexion of the interphalangeal joint, resulting in deformity.
• D. An injury causes pain and swelling of the median plantar nerve.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Compartment syndrome is characterized by swelling and increased pressure within a muscle compartment, leading to decreased blood flow and oxygen supply to nerves and muscles. This can result from various causes, such as trauma or the application of a cast after a fracture. If left untreated, compartment syndrome can lead to tissue necrosis. Choice A is incorrect as pain and tingling starting in the buttock and traveling down the leg are not specific features of compartment syndrome. Choice C is incorrect as permanent flexion of the interphalangeal joint is unrelated to compartment syndrome. Choice D is incorrect as pain and swelling of the median plantar nerve do not describe compartment syndrome.

3. Which of the following interventions is necessary before insertion of an arterial line into the radial artery?

• A. Ensure that the client does not need surgery
• B. Assess the client's grip strength
• C. Perform an Allen test
• D. Check a serum potassium level

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Before inserting an arterial line into the radial artery, it is crucial to perform an Allen test. The Allen test assesses the collateral circulation to the hand by compressing both the radial and ulnar arteries. By occluding the radial artery and releasing the ulnar artery, the nurse can check if the ulnar artery can adequately supply blood to the hand if the radial artery is cannulated. This step ensures that there is adequate circulation to the hand post-insertion of the arterial line. Choice A, ensuring that the client does not need surgery, is not directly related to the insertion of an arterial line and is not a necessary step before the procedure. Choice B, assessing grip strength, is not specific to the vascular status of the hand and does not provide information about the adequacy of collateral circulation. Choice D, checking a serum potassium level, is unrelated to the assessment of radial artery patency and collateral circulation, which are the primary concerns before arterial line insertion.

4. What kind of preventive measures is MOST likely to be used to prevent Mary Eden from falling due to her muscular frailty?

• A. Physical therapy for muscle strengthening exercises
• B. Physical therapy for range of motion exercises
• C. Occupational therapy to help her with confusion
• D. Medications to help her sleep more

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Mary Eden, due to her muscular frailty, is at risk of falling. The most effective preventive measure in this case would be physical therapy focusing on muscle strengthening exercises. Strengthening exercises can help improve her muscle tone and stability, reducing the risk of falls. While range of motion exercises may be beneficial, they may not directly address her muscular frailty and stability concerns as effectively as muscle strengthening exercises. Occupational therapy aims to help individuals with activities of daily living and functional tasks, not confusion. Medications to induce more sleep can actually increase the risk of falls due to potential side effects like dizziness or disorientation, rather than preventing falls.

5. A client is seen in the emergency room as a victim of suspected domestic violence. The nurse's aide brings the client to a center curtained area, gives her a gown to change into, and asks her to wait for the nurse. What is the most appropriate action of the nurse upon arrival?

• A. Ask the client to undress to assess for injuries
• B. Take the client into a private room
• C. Notify the police to file a report
• D. Notify the house supervisor to keep security on alert

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When dealing with a client suspected of domestic violence, it is crucial to provide privacy and a safe environment. Taking the client into a private room allows for a confidential conversation and assessment without compromising the client's safety or dignity. The nurse should prioritize creating a safe space for the client to share information and receive support. Notification of authorities should only occur once a thorough assessment has been conducted to ensure the client's safety and well-being. Option A is incorrect because asking the client to undress should be done with sensitivity and respect for the client's privacy, focusing on assessing injuries rather than visualizing them. Option C is premature as involving the police should be based on a comprehensive assessment and the client's consent. Option D is not the most immediate and direct action required to address the client's immediate needs in a suspected domestic violence situation.

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