Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare provider is caring for a client who has been diagnosed with sepsis. Which of the following laboratory results indicates that the client is developing disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)?

• A. Elevated hemoglobin
• B. Elevated white blood cell count
• C. Decreased fibrinogen level
• D. Decreased platelet count

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, decreased platelet count. In disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), there is widespread activation of clotting factors leading to the formation of multiple blood clots throughout the body, which can deplete platelets. A decreased platelet count is a hallmark of DIC. Elevated hemoglobin (choice A) and elevated white blood cell count (choice B) are not specific indicators of DIC. While fibrinogen levels (choice C) can be decreased in DIC due to consumption, a decreased platelet count is a more specific and early sign of DIC development.

2. A client is receiving intermittent tube feedings and is at risk for aspiration. What should the nurse identify as a risk factor?

• A. A residual of 65mL 1 hour postprandial.
• B. History of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
• C. Receiving a high-osmolarity formula.
• D. Receiving a feeding in a supine position.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: History of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Gastroesophageal reflux disease increases the risk of aspiration due to the potential for regurgitation of stomach contents into the esophagus and airways. Choices A, C, and D are not directly related to an increased risk of aspiration. A residual of 65mL 1 hour postprandial may indicate delayed gastric emptying but is not a direct risk factor for aspiration. Receiving a high-osmolarity formula or receiving a feeding in a supine position are not specific risk factors for aspiration unless they contribute to reflux or other related issues.

3. What is the appropriate action when a patient refuses treatment for religious reasons?

• A. Respect the patient's decision
• B. Persuade the patient to accept treatment
• C. Inform the healthcare provider
• D. Document the refusal

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to respect the patient's decision. When a patient refuses treatment for religious reasons, it is crucial to respect their autonomy and beliefs. Persuading the patient to accept treatment could violate their rights and autonomy, going against ethical principles. Informing the healthcare provider is important, but the immediate action should be to respect the patient's decision first. Documenting the refusal is necessary for legal and documentation purposes, but it should not override respecting the patient's autonomy and right to refuse treatment based on religious beliefs.

4. A client has deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Apply cold compresses to the affected extremity.
• B. Massage the affected extremity every 2 hours.
• C. Elevate the affected extremity above the level of the heart.
• D. Keep the affected extremity dependent when sitting.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct intervention for a client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is to elevate the affected extremity above the level of the heart. This position promotes venous return, reduces swelling, and helps prevent complications such as pulmonary embolism. Applying cold compresses (choice A) can vasoconstrict blood vessels, potentially worsening the condition. Massaging the affected extremity (choice B) can dislodge the clot and lead to serious complications. Keeping the affected extremity dependent when sitting (choice D) can hinder venous return and exacerbate the DVT.

5. A client with diabetes mellitus is being taught by a nurse about preventing long-term complications. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will keep my blood glucose levels within the target range.
• B. I will check my feet daily for any open sores or wounds.
• C. I will consume foods that are high in fiber.
• D. I will monitor my blood pressure regularly.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because checking the feet daily for open sores or wounds is crucial in preventing complications like diabetic foot ulcers. While maintaining blood glucose levels within the target range (choice A) is important in managing diabetes, it does not specifically address long-term complications. Consuming foods high in fiber (choice C) is beneficial for glycemic control but does not directly relate to preventing long-term complications. Monitoring blood pressure regularly (choice D) is important in managing diabetes but is not as directly related to preventing long-term complications as checking for foot wounds.

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