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 healthcare provider is reviewing the medical record of a client who has hypertension. Which of the following findings should the provider identify as a risk factor for this condition?

• A. Age 25 years
• B. Family history of hypotension
• C. Obesity
• D. History of hypotension

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Obesity. Obesity is a significant risk factor for hypertension due to its impact on the cardiovascular system. Obesity can lead to increased blood pressure due to the additional workload placed on the heart and blood vessels. Age alone does not necessarily predispose someone to hypertension, and a family history of hypotension or a personal history of hypotension would not increase the risk of developing hypertension. Family history of hypotension is not a known risk factor for hypertension, and a history of hypotension actually indicates low blood pressure, which is the opposite of hypertension.

3. How should a healthcare provider assess a patient with potential diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?

• A. Monitor blood glucose and check for ketones in urine
• B. Administer insulin and provide fluids
• C. Administer potassium and check for electrolyte imbalance
• D. Administer sodium bicarbonate and monitor urine output

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Correct answer: To assess a patient with potential diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), healthcare providers should monitor blood glucose and check for ketones in the urine. Elevated blood glucose levels and the presence of ketones in urine are indicative of DKA. Choice B is incorrect because administering insulin and providing fluids are treatments for DKA rather than assessment measures. Choice C is incorrect as administering potassium and checking for electrolyte imbalance are interventions related to managing DKA complications, not initial assessment. Choice D is incorrect because administering sodium bicarbonate and monitoring urine output are not primary assessment actions for DKA.

4. A client with asthma and a new prescription for an ipratropium inhaler is being taught by a nurse. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will rinse my mouth after each use
• B. I should wait 5 minutes before taking a second puff
• C. I should take this medication when I wake up
• D. I should wait 1 minute before taking a second puff

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because waiting 1 minute between puffs ensures proper absorption of the medication. Choice A is incorrect as rinsing the mouth is not a specific instruction related to using the inhaler. Choice B is incorrect as waiting 5 minutes between puffs is longer than necessary. Choice C is incorrect as the timing of medication administration is not specified in the question.

5. A client with a tracheostomy is experiencing increased secretions and labored breathing. What should the nurse do first?

• A. Administer a bronchodilator
• B. Suction the tracheostomy
• C. Encourage the client to cough
• D. Notify the provider

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to suction the tracheostomy first. When a client with a tracheostomy is experiencing increased secretions and labored breathing, suctioning the tracheostomy is the priority intervention to clear the airway and improve breathing. Administering a bronchodilator (Choice A) may help with breathing but should come after ensuring the airway is clear. Encouraging the client to cough (Choice C) may not be effective in clearing secretions from the tracheostomy. Notifying the provider (Choice D) can be done after ensuring immediate airway clearance.

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