Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who has a terminal illness and is approaching death. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of impending death?

• A. Hypertension.
• B. Tachycardia.
• C. Cold extremities.
• D. Diaphoresis.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Cold extremities are a critical sign of impending death as they indicate decreased circulation, leading to poor perfusion to the extremities. This phenomenon occurs as the body redirects blood flow to vital organs, preparing for the end of life. Hypertension and tachycardia are less likely to be seen in the terminal phase and are usually associated with other conditions like shock or sepsis. Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, may occur in various situations but is not a specific indicator of impending death in this context.

2. A nurse manager is discussing the responsibility of nurses caring for clients who have Clostridium difficile. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Assign the client to a room with a negative air-flow system
• B. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when leaving the client's room
• C. Clean contaminated surfaces in the client's room with a phenol solution
• D. Have family members wear a gown and gloves when visiting

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because having family members wear a gown and gloves when visiting a client with Clostridium difficile is essential to prevent the spread of infection. Options A, B, and C are incorrect. Negative air-flow systems are not necessary for preventing the spread of C. difficile. While alcohol-based hand sanitizers are effective for routine hand hygiene, they may not be sufficient for C. difficile. Cleaning contaminated surfaces with a phenol solution is not the most effective method for preventing the spread of C. difficile, as spores can be resistant to many disinfectants.

3. Which of the following interventions is most appropriate for a client with left-leg weakness who is learning to use a cane?

• A. Maintain two points of support on the floor at all times
• B. Use the cane on the weak side of the body
• C. Advance the cane and the strong leg simultaneously
• D. Advance the cane 30 to 45 cm (12-18 in) with each step

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate intervention for a client with left-leg weakness learning to use a cane is to maintain two points of support on the floor at all times. This ensures stability and helps distribute weight evenly between the legs, reducing the risk of falls. Using the cane on the weak side of the body (Choice B) may not provide adequate support. Advancing the cane and the strong leg simultaneously (Choice C) can lead to imbalance and increases the risk of falls. Advancing the cane too far with each step (Choice D) can also compromise balance and stability.

4. When caring for a client diagnosed with delirium, what condition should the nurse prioritize investigating?

• A. Investigate medication history
• B. Investigate sensory deficits
• C. Investigate cognitive functioning
• D. Investigate for signs of infection

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to investigate for signs of infection when caring for a client diagnosed with delirium. Infections can frequently cause or worsen delirium. While investigating medication history, sensory deficits, and cognitive functioning may be important in the overall care of the client, when prioritizing, the nurse should first rule out or address potential infections due to their significant impact on delirium.

5. Which assessment finding is expected with myxedema?

• A. Increased pulse rate
• B. Decreased temperature
• C. Fine tremors
• D. Weight loss

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Myxedema is characterized by a decreased metabolic rate, leading to manifestations such as decreased temperature. Therefore, the correct assessment finding expected with myxedema is a decreased temperature. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because myxedema typically presents with a decreased pulse rate, not an increased pulse rate, absence of fine tremors (which are more common in hyperthyroidism), and weight gain rather than weight loss.

Similar Questions