Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who has a serum sodium level of 125 mEq/L. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Numbness of the extremities.
• B. Abdominal cramping.
• C. Bradycardia.
• D. Positive Chvostek's sign.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Abdominal cramping is a common manifestation of hyponatremia, as the sodium imbalance affects muscle function. Numbness of the extremities (Choice A) is more commonly associated with electrolyte imbalances such as hypocalcemia. Bradycardia (Choice C) is not typically a direct manifestation of hyponatremia. Positive Chvostek's sign (Choice D) is related to hypocalcemia, not hyponatremia.

2. Which of the following interventions should the nurse prioritize for a client with dementia who is at risk of falls?

• A. Use restraints to prevent the client from leaving the bed
• B. Use a bed exit alarm system to notify staff when the client attempts to leave the bed
• C. Encourage frequent ambulation with assistance
• D. Raise all four side rails to prevent falls

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Using a bed exit alarm system is a non-restrictive intervention that alerts staff when the client tries to leave the bed, promoting safety and preventing falls. Choice A is incorrect because using restraints can have adverse effects and should be avoided whenever possible. Choice C is not the priority for a client at risk of falls due to dementia as it may increase the risk of falls without proper supervision. Choice D is also not recommended as raising all four side rails can lead to restraint and should be used cautiously, if at all. Therefore, the best option is to use a bed exit alarm system to ensure the client's safety while allowing some freedom of movement.

3. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to ensure the safety of a client using home oxygen?

• A. Allow smoking in designated areas
• B. Keep oxygen tanks upright at all times
• C. Store the oxygen equipment in a closet
• D. Keep oxygen tanks at least 10 feet away from heat sources

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Keep oxygen tanks upright at all times.' Oxygen tanks should be stored in an upright position to prevent leaks and accidents. Choice A is incorrect as smoking should never be allowed near oxygen due to the risk of fire. Choice C is incorrect as oxygen equipment should be stored in a well-ventilated area, not in a closet. Choice D is incorrect as oxygen tanks must be kept a minimum of 5 to 10 feet away from heat sources to prevent combustion. Therefore, the best practice is to keep oxygen tanks upright to ensure safety.

4. A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is being taught by a nurse about measures to improve breathing. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Use pursed-lip breathing during physical activity
• B. Breathe deeply and quickly during exercise
• C. Avoid using the incentive spirometer
• D. Avoid physical activity to conserve energy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction the nurse should include is to 'Use pursed-lip breathing during physical activity.' Pursed-lip breathing is a technique that helps improve breathing efficiency in individuals with COPD by preventing airway collapse and allowing for better air exchange. Choice B is incorrect because breathing deeply and quickly can lead to hyperventilation and worsen symptoms in COPD patients. Choice C is incorrect because the incentive spirometer is a device used to encourage deep breathing and improve lung function, so it should not be avoided. Choice D is incorrect because physical activity is important for maintaining overall health and should be encouraged in a controlled and appropriate manner for individuals with COPD.

5. A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following abdominal surgery. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to promote wound healing?

• A. Apply heat to the surgical site
• B. Ensure the client consumes adequate protein
• C. Encourage the client to ambulate frequently
• D. Instruct the client to drink 4 liters of water daily

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to ensure the client consumes adequate protein. Protein is essential for wound healing as it supports tissue repair. Applying heat to the surgical site (choice A) is not recommended as it can increase inflammation. Although ambulation (choice C) is beneficial for circulation and preventing complications, it is not directly related to promoting wound healing. Instructing the client to drink 4 liters of water daily (choice D) is excessive and not specifically related to wound healing in this context.

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