Nursing Elites

1. A client has hypertension and a potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Suggest that the client use a salt substitute
• B. Obtain a 12-lead ECG
• C. Obtain a blood sample for a serum sodium level
• D. Advise the client to add citrus juices and bananas to their diet

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Obtaining a 12-lead ECG is crucial in this situation to assess cardiac function due to the elevated potassium level. High potassium levels can lead to dangerous arrhythmias, and an ECG helps in detecting any cardiac abnormalities. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Suggesting a salt substitute can further elevate the client's potassium levels. Checking serum sodium levels is not the priority when dealing with high potassium levels. Advising the client to add citrus juices and bananas, which are high in potassium, would worsen the situation.

2. How should a healthcare provider manage a patient with deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

• A. Monitoring for signs of pulmonary embolism
• B. Applying compression stockings
• C. Administering anticoagulants as prescribed
• D. Encouraging leg elevation to reduce swelling

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Monitoring for signs of pulmonary embolism is crucial in patients with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) as it can be a life-threatening complication. While administering anticoagulants as prescribed is important for preventing clot progression, the immediate concern is detecting potential pulmonary embolism. Applying compression stockings and encouraging leg elevation are beneficial measures for managing DVT symptoms but are not as critical as monitoring for pulmonary embolism.

3. How should a healthcare provider respond to a patient who is exhibiting signs of acute myocardial infarction (AMI)?

• A. Calling for emergency assistance immediately
• B. Administering nitroglycerin as prescribed
• C. Monitoring the patient's cardiac rhythm
• D. Administering oxygen and preparing for ECG

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a patient is exhibiting signs of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), the priority action is to call for emergency assistance immediately. This ensures that the patient receives prompt and appropriate care, including interventions such as administering oxygen, nitroglycerin, and monitoring cardiac rhythm. Administering nitroglycerin should only be done if prescribed by a healthcare provider after assessment and confirmation of AMI. Monitoring the patient's cardiac rhythm is important but not the initial action needed in this critical situation. Administering oxygen and preparing for an ECG are important interventions but should follow the immediate step of calling for emergency assistance.

4. A nurse manager is teaching a group of staff members about proper body mechanics. Which of the following statements by a staff member indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I should get assistance when lifting more than 35 pounds
• B. I will twist at my waist when moving an object
• C. I should hold objects 1 ft away from my body when I walk
• D. I will roll my shoulders forward to reduce strain on my back

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Choice A is the correct answer because lifting more than 35 pounds without assistance can cause injury, so getting help is crucial for proper body mechanics. Choice B is incorrect as twisting at the waist can lead to back injuries. Choice C is incorrect as holding objects closer to the body, not 1 ft away, is recommended to reduce strain. Choice D is incorrect as rolling shoulders forward can increase strain on the back instead of reducing it.

5. A nurse is preparing to administer morphine sulfate to a client. What should the nurse assess before administration?

• A. Assess for pain relief.
• B. Monitor for respiratory depression.
• C. Assess the infusion site for complications.
• D. Increase the dosage if the client reports more pain.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Correct answer: Before administering morphine sulfate, the nurse should monitor for respiratory depression as it is a significant side effect of this medication. Assessing for pain relief (Choice A) is important but not a pre-administration assessment. Checking the infusion site for complications (Choice C) is relevant for IV medications, not specifically for morphine sulfate. Increasing the dosage if the client reports more pain (Choice D) is not appropriate without further assessment and medical orders.

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