Nursing Elites

1. When a chest tube is accidentally removed from a client, which of the following actions should the nurse NOT take first?

• A. Obtain a chest x-ray
• B. Apply sterile gauze to the insertion site
• C. Place tape around the insertion site
• D. Assess respiratory status

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a chest tube is accidentally removed, the priority action for the nurse is to immediately seal the insertion site with a gloved hand, a sterile occlusive dressing, or petroleum gauze to prevent air from entering the pleural space and causing a pneumothorax. Applying sterile gauze to the insertion site is not the correct initial action. The first step is to prevent respiratory compromise by ensuring the site is sealed. Therefore, the nurse should not apply sterile gauze to the insertion site first.

2. A patient is kept off food and fluids for 10 hours before surgery. His oral temperature at 8 a.m. is 99.8°F (37.7°C). This temperature reading probably indicates:

• A. Infection
• B. Hypothermia
• C. Anxiety
• D. Dehydration

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A patient being kept off food and fluids before surgery can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can cause a slight increase in body temperature, which could explain the elevated oral temperature reading of 99.8°F (37.7°C) in this scenario. Infections are more likely to cause higher fevers, hypothermia would present with a lower temperature, and anxiety typically does not directly affect body temperature in this manner.

3. When creating a plan of care for a newly admitted client with obsessive-compulsive disorder, which of the following interventions should the nurse take?

• A. Allow the client enough time to perform rituals
• B. Give the client autonomy in scheduling activities
• C. Discourage the client from exploring irrational fears
• D. Provide negative reinforcement for ritualistic behaviors

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder often feel compelled to perform rituals to alleviate anxiety. Allowing the client enough time to perform these rituals can help reduce their anxiety levels and promote a sense of control. Providing autonomy in scheduling activities can also empower the client and enhance their sense of independence. Discouraging exploration of irrational fears may increase anxiety and worsen symptoms. Negative reinforcement for ritualistic behaviors is not recommended as it can be counterproductive and reinforce the behavior.

4. The healthcare professional is preparing to take vital signs in an alert client admitted to the hospital with dehydration secondary to vomiting and diarrhea. What is the best method used to assess the client’s temperature?

• A. Oral
• B. Axillary
• C. Radial
• D. Heat-sensitive tape

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most accurate method for assessing temperature in an alert client is the oral method. It provides a more reliable reflection of the body's core temperature compared to axillary or radial methods. In cases of dehydration, it is important to get an accurate temperature reading to monitor the client's condition closely. Axillary temperature may be affected by environmental factors, while radial temperature measurement is not a standard method for assessing core body temperature. Heat-sensitive tape is not a recognized method for assessing body temperature in clinical practice.

5. Which instrument is used for auscultation?

• A. Percussion hammer
• B. Audiometer
• C. Stethoscope
• D. Sphygmomanometer

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Auscultation involves listening to internal sounds in the body, such as heart and lung sounds. The instrument used for auscultation is a stethoscope, which allows healthcare providers to listen to these sounds. The percussion hammer is used to elicit sounds on the body, the audiometer is used to measure hearing ability, and the sphygmomanometer is used to measure blood pressure. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Stethoscope.'

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