Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a client who has an altered mental status and has become aggressive. Which of the following prescriptions should the nurse clarify with the provider prior to administration?

• A. Haloperidol
• B. Zolpidem
• C. Morphine
• D. Lorazepam

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Zolpidem. Zolpidem is a sedative-hypnotic medication that can worsen altered mental status, especially in clients who are already aggressive. Therefore, the nurse should clarify this prescription with the provider before administration to ensure it is safe for the client. Choice A, Haloperidol, is an antipsychotic commonly used to manage aggression in clients with altered mental status, making it an appropriate choice in this scenario. Choice C, Morphine, is an opioid analgesic and would not directly impact the client's altered mental status or aggression. Choice D, Lorazepam, is a benzodiazepine used to manage anxiety and agitation, which could be beneficial in this situation but does not have the same potential to exacerbate altered mental status as Zolpidem.

2. A home health nurse is preparing for an initial visit with an older adult client who lives alone. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Educate the client about their current medical diagnosis.
• B. Refer the client to a meal delivery program.
• C. Identify environmental hazards in the home.
• D. Arrange transportation for the client to follow-up appointments.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Identifying environmental hazards in the client's home is the priority during the initial visit with an older adult living alone. This action is crucial to prevent accidents, falls, and ensure the client's safety. While educating the client about their medical diagnosis, referring them to a meal delivery program, and arranging transportation for follow-up appointments are essential, addressing environmental hazards takes precedence as it directly impacts the client's immediate safety and well-being.

3. What are the complications of untreated deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

• A. Pulmonary embolism and stroke
• B. Kidney failure and hypertension
• C. Liver failure and electrolyte imbalance
• D. Fluid overload and bradycardia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Untreated DVT can lead to complications such as pulmonary embolism and stroke. Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot from the leg travels to the lungs, potentially blocking blood flow and causing respiratory distress. Stroke can occur if a blood clot dislodges from the leg veins, travels to the brain, and obstructs a blood vessel, leading to brain tissue damage. Both of these complications are life-threatening if not managed promptly. The other choices (B, C, D) do not represent common complications of untreated DVT and are therefore incorrect.

4. A nurse is planning care for a preschool-age child who is in the acute phase of Kawasaki disease. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Administer scheduled doses of acetaminophen every 6 hr.
• B. Monitor the child's cardiac status.
• C. Administer antibiotics via intermittent IV bolus for 24 hr.
• D. Provide stimulation with children of the same age in the playroom.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Monitoring cardiac status is crucial during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease because of the potential for coronary artery complications. Acetaminophen may be used for fever management but is not the priority intervention. Antibiotics are not indicated as Kawasaki disease is not caused by a bacterial infection. Providing stimulation in the playroom is important for the child's emotional well-being but does not address the immediate physiological concern of cardiac monitoring.

5. What are the signs and symptoms of fluid overload, and how should a nurse manage this condition?

• A. Edema, weight gain, shortness of breath
• B. Fever, cough, chest pain
• C. Increased heart rate, low blood pressure
• D. Increased blood pressure, jugular venous distention

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Fluid overload manifests as edema, weight gain, and shortness of breath. These symptoms occur due to an excess of fluid in the body. Managing fluid overload involves interventions such as monitoring fluid intake and output, adjusting diuretic therapy, restricting fluid intake, and collaborating with healthcare providers to address the underlying cause. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not represent typical signs of fluid overload. Fever, cough, chest pain, increased heart rate, low blood pressure, increased blood pressure, and jugular venous distention are not primary indicators of fluid overload.

Similar Questions