Nursing Elites

1. What action should the healthcare provider take for a patient with a chest tube?

• A. Strip the drainage tubing every 4 hours.
• B. Keep the drainage system below the level of the patient's chest.
• C. Clamp the chest tube when ambulating the patient.
• D. Ensure the water seal chamber is filled to the prescribed level.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Ensuring the water seal chamber is filled to the prescribed level is essential for the chest tube's effective functioning. This maintains the integrity of the system, prevents air from entering the pleural space, and facilitates proper drainage. Stripping the drainage tubing, keeping the drainage system below the chest level, or clamping the chest tube during ambulation are not recommended practices and can lead to complications.

2. A client with a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is receiving teaching from a healthcare provider. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will take my insulin only if my blood sugar is above 200 mg/dL.
• B. I will eat a snack before exercising.
• C. I will avoid all carbohydrates.
• D. I will check my blood sugar once a week.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Eating a snack before exercising is crucial for managing blood sugar levels and preventing hypoglycemia in individuals with diabetes. Exercising on an empty stomach can lead to low blood sugar levels, but consuming a snack before physical activity helps stabilize blood sugar and provides energy for the body. This proactive approach demonstrates the client's understanding of the importance of managing blood sugar levels during physical activity.

3. A client with a new diagnosis of COPD is being taught about dietary management. Which of the following statements should be included in the teaching?

• A. You should increase your intake of high-calorie foods.
• B. You should decrease your intake of high-protein foods.
• C. You should avoid foods that contain lactose.
• D. You should increase your intake of high-fiber foods.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct statement to include in the teaching for a client with a new diagnosis of COPD is that they should increase their intake of high-calorie foods. This is important to help maintain energy levels and manage weight. COPD can lead to increased energy expenditure due to the increased work of breathing, making it crucial to consume adequate calories for energy. High-calorie foods can help prevent weight loss and support overall nutritional status in COPD patients. Choice B is incorrect because high-protein foods are important for maintaining muscle mass in COPD patients. Choice C is incorrect as there is no need to avoid foods that contain lactose unless the client is lactose intolerant. Choice D is incorrect as increasing high-fiber foods may exacerbate symptoms like bloating and gas in COPD patients.

4. A client with dysphagia and at risk for aspiration needs care planning. Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan?

• A. Encourage the client to drink thickened liquids.
• B. Instruct the client to swallow with chin tucked.
• C. Provide the client with a cup with a lid.
• D. Place the client in Fowler's position for meals.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Placing the client in Fowler's position is crucial in preventing aspiration as it helps maintain an open airway and reduces the risk of food or liquid entering the lungs during swallowing. This position promotes safer swallowing and minimizes the chances of aspiration pneumonia. Choices A, B, and C are less effective interventions for preventing aspiration. Encouraging the client to drink thickened liquids may help, but the position is more critical. Instructing the client to swallow with chin tucked is beneficial for some individuals but not as effective as positioning. Providing a cup with a lid does not directly address the risk of aspiration associated with dysphagia.

5. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a prescription for digoxin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take your pulse before taking the medication.
• B. Take the medication with an antacid.
• C. Double the dose if you miss one.
• D. Take the medication with a high-fiber meal.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Take your pulse before taking the medication.' When administering digoxin, it is crucial to monitor the pulse rate because digoxin can cause bradycardia (slow heart rate). Checking the pulse helps in assessing the heart rate before taking the medication, as bradycardia is a common side effect of digoxin. Choice B is incorrect because digoxin should not be taken with antacids, as they can reduce its absorption. Choice C is incorrect; the dose should never be doubled if a dose is missed. Choice D is incorrect because taking digoxin with a high-fiber meal can also affect its absorption. Therefore, the essential instruction for the client is to monitor the pulse before taking digoxin.

Similar Questions