Nursing Elites

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

• A. Abdominal cramping
• B. Increased thirst
• C. Elevated blood pressure
• D. Elevated heart rate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Abdominal cramping is a common manifestation of hyponatremia (low sodium levels). When sodium levels drop, it can lead to changes in the body's water balance, affecting cell function and causing symptoms like abdominal cramping. Increased thirst (choice B) is more commonly associated with hypernatremia (high sodium levels) due to the body's attempt to dilute the excess sodium. Elevated blood pressure (choice C) and elevated heart rate (choice D) are not typically direct manifestations of low sodium levels and are more commonly seen in conditions like dehydration or shock.

2. A client is immobile due to a cast, and a nurse is assisting in the use of a fracture bedpan. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Place the shallow end of the fracture pan under the client’s buttocks.
• B. Encourage the client to remain immobile on the fracture pan for 20 minutes.
• C. Keep the bed flat while the client is on the fracture pan.
• D. Hyperextend the client’s back while the fracture pan is in place.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct action when using a fracture bedpan for an immobile client is to place the shallow end of the pan under the client's buttocks. This positioning helps in proper collection of feces without causing discomfort or injury. Encouraging the client to try to defecate for 20 minutes (Choice B) is inappropriate and unrealistic, as defecation should not be forced or timed. Keeping the bed flat (Choice C) is incorrect as elevating the head of the bed can help promote proper positioning for bedpan use. Hyperextending the client's back (Choice D) is contraindicated and can lead to discomfort and potential injury to the client.

3. Which statement made by a client indicates to the nurse that they may have a thought disorder?

• A. 'I'm so angry about this. Wait until my partner hears about this.'
• B. 'I'm a little confused. What time is it?'
• C. 'I can't find my missing shoes. Have you seen them?'
• D. 'I'm fine. It's my daughter who has the problem.'

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The statement 'I can't find my missing shoes. Have you seen them?' displays disorganized thinking or speech, which is characteristic of a thought disorder. The mention of 'missing shoes' in a context that does not make logical sense suggests a disturbance in thought processes. Choices A, B, and D do not demonstrate disorganized thinking typical of thought disorders. Option A reflects emotional expression, option B indicates mild confusion, and option D shows a redirection of focus to someone else's problem.

4. A client who has recently started using a behind-the-ear hearing aid is being cared for by a nurse. Which of the following statements should the nurse identify as an indication that the client understands the use of assistive devices?

• A. “I will be sure to remove my hearing aid before taking a shower.”
• B. “I will keep my hearing aid in at all times, even when sleeping.”
• C. “I will clean my hearing aid with alcohol.”
• D. “I will turn off my hearing aid when not in use.”

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. It is crucial for the client to remove the hearing aid before showering to prevent damage from moisture. Choice B is incorrect as wearing the hearing aid all the time, including during sleep, is not recommended and can cause discomfort or harm. Choice C is incorrect as alcohol can damage hearing aids; they should be cleaned with a solution recommended by the manufacturer to prevent harm. Choice D is incorrect because hearing aids should not be turned off when not in use; instead, they should be stored properly following the manufacturer's instructions to maintain functionality and battery life.

5. When demonstrating an empathic presence to a client, which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Use an open posture
• B. Write down what the client says for accurate documentation
• C. Establish and maintain eye contact
• D. Nod in agreement with the client throughout the conversation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Using an open posture is crucial when demonstrating empathy to a client. This body language conveys openness, understanding, and a willingness to listen, creating a safe space for the client to express themselves. Establishing and maintaining eye contact is also important as it fosters a sense of connection and validation for the client. Writing down what the client says is essential for accurate documentation and memory but does not directly contribute to demonstrating empathic presence. Nodding in agreement with the client throughout the conversation may show attentiveness, but it does not necessarily reflect empathy or active listening as it could be misinterpreted as simply agreeing with what is being said.

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