Nursing Elites

1. A client had a pituitary tumor removed. Which of the following findings requires further assessment?

• A. Glasgow scale score of 15
• B. Blood drainage on dressing measuring 3 cm
• C. Report of dry mouth
• D. Urinary output greater than fluid intake

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Increased urinary output greater than fluid intake can indicate diabetes insipidus, a common complication after pituitary surgery. Diabetes insipidus is characterized by the excretion of a large volume of dilute urine, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. This finding requires immediate assessment and intervention. Choice A, a Glasgow scale score of 15, indicates normal neurological functioning. Choice B, blood drainage on dressing measuring 3 cm, may require monitoring but is not a priority over the potential complication of diabetes insipidus. Choice C, a report of dry mouth, is a common complaint postoperatively and can be managed with oral care measures.

2. A client who is 38 weeks pregnant with herpes simplex virus is admitted to labor and delivery. What question should the nurse ask?

• A. Do you have any active lesions?
• B. Have your membranes ruptured?
• C. How far apart are your contractions?
• D. Are you positive for beta strep?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct question the nurse should ask the client who is 38 weeks pregnant with herpes simplex virus is 'Do you have any active lesions?' This is crucial because active herpes lesions may necessitate a cesarean delivery to prevent neonatal infection. Choice B, 'Have your membranes ruptured?' is related to assessing for the rupture of membranes, not specific to the client's herpes infection. Choice C, 'How far apart are your contractions?' is related to monitoring labor progress. Choice D, 'Are you positive for beta strep?' is related to group B streptococcus screening, which is important but not the priority in this scenario.

3. A nurse is caring for an older adult who has a nonpalpable skin lesion that is less than 0.5 cm (0.2 in) in diameter. Which of the following terms should the nurse use to document this finding?

• A. Papule
• B. Vesicle
• C. Macule
• D. Nodule

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct term the nurse should use to document this finding is 'Macule.' A macule is a flat, nonpalpable skin lesion that is smaller than 1 cm in diameter. In this case, the lesion described is less than 0.5 cm, making it appropriate to classify it as a macule. 'Papule' (Choice A) refers to a solid, elevated skin lesion, 'Vesicle' (Choice B) is a small fluid-filled blister, and 'Nodule' (Choice D) is a solid, elevated skin lesion that is larger and deeper than a papule, none of which accurately describe the lesion in question.

4. What can cause a low pulse oximetry reading?

• A. Hyperthermia
• B. Increased hemoglobin level
• C. Inadequate peripheral circulation
• D. Low altitudes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Inadequate peripheral circulation can cause a low pulse oximetry reading by limiting blood flow to the area being measured, leading to inaccurate oxygen saturation readings. Hyperthermia (choice A) is an elevated body temperature and does not directly affect pulse oximetry readings. An increased hemoglobin level (choice B) would actually lead to higher oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood, resulting in normal or increased pulse oximetry readings. Low altitudes (choice D) typically do not cause low pulse oximetry readings unless there are other underlying conditions affecting oxygen levels.

5. A nurse in the emergency department is caring for a patient who has extensive partial and full-thickness burns of the head, neck, and chest. While planning the patient’s care, the nurse should identify which of the following risks as the priority for assessment and intervention?

• A. Infection
• B. Airway obstruction
• C. Fluid imbalance
• D. Pain management

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a patient has extensive burns involving the head, neck, and chest, the priority concern is airway obstruction. The proximity of the burns to the airway can lead to swelling and compromise the patient's ability to breathe. In this situation, ensuring a clear airway and adequate oxygenation takes precedence over other risks such as infection, fluid imbalance, or pain management. While these are also important considerations in burn care, the immediate threat to the patient's life from airway compromise makes it the priority for assessment and intervention.

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